The Cleveland Cavaliers, the Memphis Grizzlies and the Los Angeles Clippers are three competitive teams in the 2022-23 NBA regular season, but none are serious title contenders.
The Cavaliers have been a solid defensive team during the campaign, but don't be surprised when you see four of their five starters become the attacking targets of the opponents in the playoffs.
The Grizzlies have been counting on Ja Morant as the team's leader and ace, but his weak individual defense, and the absence of Steven Adams may be lethal to the team in the postseason. Dillon Brooks and Jaren Jackson Jr. may be able to help, but only if they stay on the court.
The expectations on the Clippers have been continuously slipping since their star duo, Kawhi Leonard and Paul George joined hands in 2019. This season, they have faced more problems than injuries.
Donovan Mitchell (#45) of the Cleveland Cavaliers drives toward the rim in the game against the Indiana Pacers at the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio, April 2, 2023. /CFP
Ja Morant (#12) of the Memphis Grizzlies drives toward the rim in the game against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois, April 2, 2023. /CFP
Kawhi Leonard (#2) of the Los Angeles Clippers drives toward the rim in the game against the New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana, April 1, 2023. /CFP
Host: Li Xiang
Cover designer: Feng Yuan