As the NBA season edges closer to the All-Star break, teams like the Golden State Warriors and New York Knicks are making a push to solidify their playoff spots. Both teams are currently sitting in the top half of their respective conferences and have shown that they aren’t done yet.
The Warriors, who have had a tumultuous season due to injuries, COVID-19 protocols, and a new roster, have been picking up steam as of late. Led by Stephen Curry’s MVP-level play, the team has won eight of their last ten games and are currently in sixth place in the Western Conference. With the recent return of Draymond Green and the addition of Kelly Oubre Jr., the Warriors are starting to look more like the championship-caliber team they were just a few years ago.
Meanwhile, the Knicks, who have been one of the surprise teams of the season, are in fifth place in the Eastern Conference. Led by Julius Randle’s All-Star caliber play, the team has won seven of their last ten games and has shown that they are a legitimate playoff contender. With the emergence of young players like Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett, and the solid play of veterans like Derrick Rose and Taj Gibson, the Knicks have become a tough team to beat.
As for the NFL, the schedule continues to provide exciting matchups and storylines. In Week 13, the Los Angeles Rams take on the Arizona Cardinals in a crucial NFC West matchup. Both teams are currently tied for second place in the division and are vying for a playoff spot. The Rams, led by their top-ranked defense, will try to slow down the dynamic Cardinals offense led by Kyler Murray and DeAndre Hopkins.
In Week 14, the Buffalo Bills take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a matchup between two of the top teams in their respective conferences. The Bills, led by MVP candidate Josh Allen, will try to continue their push for the AFC East division crown. Meanwhile, the Buccaneers, led by Tom Brady and a talented defense, will look to maintain their lead in the NFC South.
Looking ahead to Week 15, the Kansas City Chiefs take on the Los Angeles Chargers in a rematch of their Week 2 matchup. The Chiefs, who have been one of the top teams in the league all season, will try to stop the Chargers’ dynamic rookie quarterback, Justin Herbert. Meanwhile, the Chargers, who have been plagued by close losses all season, will look to pull off the upset and keep their playoff hopes alive.
With just a few weeks left in the regular season, every game becomes more important as teams fight for playoff spots and seeding. Expect to see more exciting matchups and unpredictable outcomes as the season winds down.