The NBA’s stretch run is officially here, with teams gearing up for the final push to the playoffs. The trade deadline and All-Star break have shaken things up, with major moves like Luka Doncic joining the Lakers, Jimmy Butler heading to the Warriors, and Anthony Davis landing in Dallas. With around 26-30 games left, every matchup carries weight, as recent history has shown that even lower-seeded teams can make deep postseason runs. Players like Stephen Curry are embracing the challenge, knowing that from this point on, every game feels like a playoff battle.
Some teams, like Oklahoma City, Cleveland, and Boston, are already in prime position, with strong records and championship aspirations. MVP frontrunner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander believes the Thunder have a real shot at the title, while the Celtics continue to dominate from beyond the arc. Meanwhile, struggling teams like Philadelphia, Brooklyn, and Washington face near-certain elimination, leaving a crowded middle pack of 16 teams fighting for the final nine playoff spots. The intensity is set to rise as teams scramble to secure their place before April 13.
Big trades have reshaped contenders, with Miami moving Butler for Andrew Wiggins, San Antonio acquiring De’Aaron Fox, and the Clippers getting a healthier Kawhi Leonard back in action. James Harden sees his team as a serious threat, while Phoenix, keeping Kevin Durant, hopes to build momentum with its star trio. Milwaukee’s addition of Kyle Kuzma signals a shift, while Dallas must overcome Davis’ uncertain status and Doncic’s recovery to make their new star pairing work.
With teams eager to gain momentum, the next seven weeks will determine the true contenders. The Warriors hope Butler can reignite their championship hopes, and Curry knows every game is crucial in the ultra-competitive Western Conference. With the playoffs looming, the fight for seeding, chemistry, and survival begins now—every game is a step closer to glory or disappointment.
