It's not that I think OKC will not be good, it's just that I feel Dallas, Denver, and Portland will be a few games better. (Assuming no major injuries)
Actually, I am predicting that the WC race will be much the same as the last 2 seasons, with the order of the 3rd-6th seeds largely being determined by luck and health. The Blazers don't have either.
If he's paying attention to what matters he isn't even aware of this sort of trivial fodder that would be my prediction too... on paper Portland is one of the league's elite teams. 60+ wins with health STOMP
That is a big IF - that health thing. Last season Roy was hurt part of the year, and especially the most important time - playoffs. When healthy he is a SuperStar. Last season Batum was hurt. He is an exciting, young, improving, up-and-comer who anchors the perimeter D. Last season Oden was hurt. Before he went down, he had Top 5 Advanced stats. Because he likely never plays monster minutes, he won't be a Top 5 player, but Top 20 easy, and Top 10 and All-Star is within reach - IF IF IF, he stays healthy. Last season Outlaw and Rudy were hurt and other good bench players had to start, taking us from a strong bench to a weak one. With health, our bench can be a strength again. You are absolutely correct that IF this roster is healthy, we will crush teams.
Oh, I must not have been clear. I predict the Thunder will post 62 wins and win the conference outright
I would be quietly confident if I could. But to be honest, I am in wait and see mode, mostly due to players health history. Last year when Greg went down was devastating. Hoping for the best. Believing none of it until it happens.
If healthy, the Blazers are going to be one of the top few teams in the NBA, not just the West. It's a shame, though, that health for several of the team's most important players is a real question.
