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ESPN’s Summer Forecast panel provides predictions and answers about the upcoming NBA season. In a recent article, they shared their picks for the Eastern and Western Conference representatives in the NBA Finals, as well as the eventual winner. Each expert ranked their top-three choices, with points awarded accordingly. Here are the results for the conference winners and NBA Finals champion.
ESPN Predicts NBA Finalists And Finals Winner For 2024-25
Eastern Conference Winner – Boston Celtics (97 Points)
Other teams receiving votes included the Philadelphia 76ers, New York Knicks, Milwaukee Bucks, and Cleveland Cavaliers. Despite key acquisitions by the 76ers and Knicks, ESPN’s Summer Forecast believes the Celtics will prevail due to their past success and roster continuity.
Only five teams received votes, with last season’s Eastern Conference finalist, the Indiana Pacers, not receiving any.
Western Conference Winner – Oklahoma City Thunder (83 Points)
The Thunder, who surprised as the top seed last season, received the most votes in the West. Adding new players like Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein has bolstered their roster for the upcoming season.
Despite low expectations from the Summer Forecast standings, a few voters still picked the Lakers as potential conference winners, overlooking other projected contenders like the Sacramento Kings and Golden State Warriors.
NBA Champions – Boston Celtics (82 points)
In a strong showing of support, the Celtics were chosen as the favorite to win the NBA Finals. Other contenders included the Oklahoma City Thunder, Philadelphia 76ers, Denver Nuggets, and Milwaukee Bucks. Boston’s odds on DraftKings Sportsbook reflect their status as front-runners for the championship.
While some voters believe in teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves and Denver Nuggets, they did not receive any votes for winning it all, showing a lack of confidence in their ability to clinch the title.
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