The 2021 NBA season is still in full swing, but that doesn’t mean it’s too early to start thinking about the 2022 NBA Finals. With so many talented teams across the league, it can be difficult to predict who will make it to the championship round in the upcoming season. Here, we take a look at some of the teams that could be in the running for a spot in the Finals next year.
The Defending Champions: Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers are the reigning NBA champions and they have all the pieces in place to make a run at defending their crown. With LeBron James and Anthony Davis leading the way, the Lakers have one of the most talented and experienced rosters in the league. They also have a deep bench and a strong coaching staff, which gives them a good chance of making a return trip to the Finals in 2022.
The Challengers: Brooklyn Nets
The Brooklyn Nets are another team that could be in the running for a spot in the Finals next year. After a blockbuster trade to acquire James Harden, the Nets have a trio of All-Stars in their starting lineup and a deep bench. Coach Steve Nash has already shown that he can get the most out of his players, and the Nets will be a formidable opponent for any team that stands in their way.
The Contenders: Philadelphia 76ers
The Philadelphia 76ers have been a mainstay in the Eastern Conference for years and they are still a force to be reckoned with. With Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons leading the way, the Sixers have a talented young core that could take them all the way to the Finals. They also have a deep bench and a strong coaching staff, which gives them a good chance of making a deep playoff run in 2022.
The Dark Horses: Dallas Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks have been one of the most surprising teams this season and they have a strong chance of making a run at the Finals next year. Led by Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis, the Mavericks have a talented young core and a deep bench. They also have a strong coaching staff and a good system in place, giving them a good chance of making a deep playoff run in 2022.
The Outsiders: Miami Heat
The Miami Heat are an outsider for a spot in the Finals next year, but they are still a team to watch. With Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo leading the way, the Heat have a talented roster and a strong coaching staff. They also have a deep bench and a good system in place, which gives them a good chance of making a deep playoff run in 2022.
Conclusion
The 2022 NBA Finals is still a ways away, but there are already a handful of teams that could be in the running for a spot. The Los Angeles Lakers are the defending champions and they have all the pieces in place to make a run at defending their title. The Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, Dallas Mavericks, and Miami Heat are all teams to watch and they could all make a deep playoff run in 2022. Whatever teams make it to the Finals, it is sure to be an exciting and competitive matchup.