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#4 Toronto Raptors
Despite losing Kawhi Leonard to the LA Clippers, the Toronto Raptors have not dropped off their level at all this season. With Pascal Siakam being the talisman this season, the Raptors are the second seed in the Eastern Conference and have a 42-15 record. Siakam being the No. 1 scoring option for Toronto, is once again in contention for the Most Improved Player Award.
Head coach Nick Nurse has continued to work his magic with the side as they are forced to be reckoned with offensively. Their ability to come off the blocks very quickly and start the game well can be overwhelming for opponents. Their bench plays key minutes in games and contributes efficiently on both sides of the floor with the likes of Norman Powell and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson.
While the loss of Kawhi Leonard could be a problem for them in the playoffs, they seem to be becoming more and more formidable as the season goes on. Experience is key during the postseason and they have that in plenty.
#3 Los Angeles Clippers
The Los Angeles Clippers managed to stretch a fully loaded Golden State Warriors to six games last season in the first round of the playoffs last year. Then, they managed to add two MVP caliber players in Kawhi Leonard and Paul George.
Arguably the best team in the league, the Clippers led by Doc Rivers have been coasting along with injuries and load management playing a big part so far. They have been showing up in big games and putting on absolute clinical performances against their rivals. Their elite defense coupled with their free-scoring offense makes them difficult to contain.
With the reigning Finals MVP leading the way along with the likes of Paul George and Lou Williams and their tremendous bench production, the Clippers are much suited to win it all come June.
