NBA: Western Conference playoff predictions 

4. Los Angeles Lakers

2017/18 record - 35 Wins, 47 Losses

Los Angeles Clippers v Los Angeles Lakers

The only team on this list that failed to make the playoffs last season, it should be no surprise to see the Lakers improve off a poor season last time out as they acquired the biggest free agent possible in landing LeBron James this offseason.

Many suspect a big improvement from the Lakers this season as LeBron looks for success in his first season in the Western Conference in his long career.

Although a key part of the Lakers success, James will not be without help this season, Brandon Ingram looks to be set for another great improvement this season as he will no doubt be mentored by LeBron and continue to grow into the superstar many hope he will become.

The Lakers most likely won't be ready to take on the dynasty in Golden State just yet this season, but an exciting playoff run may be what it takes to secure that extra superstar next season in the offseason.

3. San Antonio Spurs

2017/18 record - 47 Wins, 35 Losses

San Antonio Spurs v Golden State Warriors - Game Five

A tough 2017/18 season for the Spurs, many believe the Popovich era is finally over, writing them off for the season to come as drama within the club saw superstar Kawhi Leonard leave to Toronto.

While trading anyone for Kawhi Leonard bar a handful is undoubtedly a downgrade, considering he only played a total of nine games for the San Antonio Spurs last season before missing the majority of the regular season and all of the playoffs with a thigh injury, picking up multiple time All-Star DeMar DeRozan will most likely improve the team from what they were for the most part of last year.

A new era dawns for the Spurs with both Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili off the roster for the first time in what seems like forever, but with All-Stars LaMarcus Aldridge and DeRozan leading the front along with veteran Pau Gasol, it would be hard to keep a Popovich side out of the playoffs this season.