NBA Preseason Standings 2021-22: Complete Team Rankings and Playoff Predictions

2025-11-14 09:00

As I sit here analyzing the upcoming NBA season, I can't help but feel that familiar buzz of anticipation. The 2021-22 preseason standings have given us plenty to chew on, and frankly, some teams have surprised me more than others. Looking at the complete team rankings, I'm seeing patterns that remind me of that Japan invitational tournament where La Salle's recent championship win puts them in position to achieve something remarkable - becoming the first-ever repeat champion in the tournament's three-year history. That kind of consistency is exactly what separates good teams from legendary ones in the NBA too.

The Western Conference looks particularly intriguing this year, with the Golden State Warriors showing signs of returning to their dominant form. Having watched Steph Curry drop 41 points in their preseason finale, I'm convinced their offensive firepower could challenge even the most disciplined defenses. What really stands out to me is their ball movement - they're averaging 28.7 assists per game in preseason, which tells me the chemistry is there. Meanwhile, the Lakers' experiment with their veteran roster has been, well, interesting to watch. At 0-5 in preseason, I've got serious concerns about their ability to gel quickly enough. Russell Westbrook's 6.2 turnovers per preseason game isn't exactly inspiring confidence, if I'm being honest.

Over in the Eastern Conference, the Milwaukee Bucks look every bit the defending champions they are. Giannis Antetokounmpo seems to have added new dimensions to his game, and I've noticed his mid-range shooting has improved significantly. The Brooklyn Nets, despite limited minutes from their big three, went 3-1 in preseason, which suggests their depth might be better than many critics claim. Personally, I think the Miami Heat are being underestimated - their acquisition of Kyle Lowry gives them the veteran leadership they've been missing, and Bam Adebayo's expanded offensive repertoire could make them dark horse contenders.

When it comes to playoff predictions, I'll admit I'm going against the grain here. While everyone's jumping on the Lakers bandwagon, I see them struggling to secure a top-four seed in the West. The Warriors, if healthy, could realistically finish with 52-55 wins and secure the third seed. In the East, I'm predicting the Bucks and Nets will battle for the top spot, but don't sleep on the Chicago Bulls - their revamped roster could surprise people and potentially grab the fourth seed.

The comparison to La Salle's situation in that Japan tournament isn't accidental. Watching teams try to repeat success in the NBA requires that same blend of talent, timing, and mental toughness. The Bucks have shown they have the championship DNA, but maintaining that hunger isn't easy. I've seen too many defending champions come out flat the following season, and while I don't expect that from Milwaukee, the target on their back is enormous.

What really excites me about this season is the resurgence of traditional basketball values we're seeing. Teams like the Knicks and Grizzlies are proving that defense and fundamental basketball still matter. The Knicks held opponents to just 98.3 points per game in preseason, which if they can maintain that into the regular season, makes them dangerous in any playoff series. Meanwhile, the Jazz continue to be the model of regular season consistency, though I remain skeptical about their playoff viability until they prove they can get over the hump.

My bold prediction? The Denver Nuggets will secure the second seed in the West once Jamal Murray returns healthy around March. Nikola Jokic is playing at an MVP level again, and their system is too good to keep them down for long. In the East, watch out for the Charlotte Hornets to make some noise - LaMelo Ball has that special quality that can elevate an entire franchise.

As we approach opening night, the standings will inevitably shift, injuries will occur, and surprise teams will emerge. But based on what we've seen in preseason and considering historical patterns, I'm confident in saying we're looking at one of the most balanced NBA seasons in recent memory. The championship race feels wide open, with at least six teams having legitimate cases for making the Finals. It's going to be a fascinating journey from these preseason indicators to the final playoff picture, and I for one can't wait to see how it all unfolds.