As the NBA season comes to a close, fans are eagerly anticipating the start of the playoffs. The NBA playoff bracket determines which teams will face off against each other in a best-of-seven series, culminating in the NBA Finals. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about the NBA playoff bracket, from how it works to the teams to watch and more.
How the NBA Playoff Bracket Works
The NBA playoffs consist of 16 teams, with eight from the Eastern Conference and eight from the Western Conference. The teams are ranked based on their regular-season records, and the top eight teams from each conference make it to the playoffs.
Once the teams are determined, they are seeded in a bracket format, with the top seed facing off against the eighth seed, the second seed against the seventh seed, and so on. The teams play each other in a best-of-seven series, with the winner advancing to the next round.
The first round of the playoffs is known as the Conference Quarterfinals, followed by the Conference Semifinals, the Conference Finals, and finally the NBA Finals. The team that wins the NBA Finals is crowned the NBA Champion.
Teams to Watch in the 2021 NBA Playoffs
The NBA playoffs are always full of surprises, but there are a few teams that are expected to make a deep run this year. The Brooklyn Nets are one of the favorites, with a star-studded lineup that includes Kevin Durant, James Harden, and Kyrie Irving. The Los Angeles Lakers, led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, are another team to watch.
The Utah Jazz had the best record in the league this season and will be looking to make a statement in the playoffs. The Phoenix Suns, led by Chris Paul and Devin Booker, are also a team to keep an eye on.
History of the NBA Playoff Bracket
The NBA playoff bracket has been in use since the league’s inception in 1947. Over the years, there have been many legendary playoff runs, from Michael Jordan’s six championships with the Chicago Bulls to LeBron James’ epic comebacks with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat.
One of the most memorable playoff moments in recent history came in 2016, when the Cleveland Cavaliers became the first team in NBA history to come back from a 3-1 deficit in the NBA Finals. Led by LeBron James, the Cavs defeated the Golden State Warriors in seven games to bring a championship to Cleveland for the first time in over 50 years.
Conclusion
The NBA playoff bracket is one of the most exciting times of the year for basketball fans. With 16 teams battling it out for the championship, anything can happen. From star-studded lineups to historic comebacks, the NBA playoffs have provided some of the most unforgettable moments in sports history. With the 2021 playoffs just around the corner, fans are eagerly anticipating what is sure to be another thrilling postseason.
