NBA Playoff First-Round Matchups: Western Conference

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Tony Peoples, Reporter

Here’s a breakdown of the the western conference teams and their matchups.

Sacramento Kings vs. Golden State Warriors

The Kings are the feel-good story of the NBA, headed for their first playoff appearance since losing in the first round in 2006.

Being 2-1 already has them looking like the victor of this series but you can’t count the defending champion warriors out. The Warriors have a strong offense but their defense can be somewhat inconsistent. The Kings have a talented roster with De’aaron Fox leading the way with a stronger defense.

Memphis Grizzlies vs. Los Angeles Lakers

Grizzlies are a young team with superstar Ja Morant and DPOY winner Jaren Jackson Jr. They have a strong defense and rebounding and the team seems to win more with Morant out.

The Lakers have a solid all around team with a deep roster of veterans and young studs. With the series 1-1 the Grizzlies are gonna have something to prove when going up against LeBron and the championship hungry Lakers.

Denver Nuggets vs. Minnesota Timberwolves

The Nuggets are a well rounded team with a strong offense led by MVP Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. They have a solid defense and the roster is full of veterans that have playoff experience.

The Timberwolves have a strong duo with Karl Anthony Towns and Anthony Edwards, who have shown flashes of potential but have yet it to put together. With the Nuggets up 2-0 it looks like the more experienced team will have the upper hand.

Los Angeles Clippers vs. Phoenix Suns

The Clippers have a good all-around team led by Kawhi Leonard and Paul George as some of the best two way players in the league, along with a deep roster of scorers and playmaking, along with the addition of Russell Westbrook.

The Suns have a dynamic offense led by Kevin Durant, Devin Booker and Chris Paul. Overall, the matchup is neck and neck as the teams have dynamic offenses and strong team play.