Pacific: Final Total Wins Projection
Here is my final total wins forecast for the season for each team!
I will give you two win ranges:
Extensive Range: It will be a 10 games range. Example, 29-38 wins.
Definite Range: It will be a 5 games range that is inside the Extensive Range. Example, 31-35 wins.
I am putting my blog on the line here. I need to score 15 points in my projection. The extensive range is worth 1/2 point while the definite range will be a full point.
Today, we will tackle the Pacific division.
GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS
Extensive Range: 61 - 70
Definite Range: 64 - 68
As expected, Golden State is putting up incredible offensive numbers but they are also giving up a lot of production to their opponent. They are averaging 119.1 points per game, 8 points higher than the second best, and shooting 50.2% per game, with 2.2% advantage to the second best. Their 10th worst defensive rating is a problem but that should not be enough to stop them from reaching the Definite Range.
LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS
Extensive Range: 57 - 66
Definite Range: 58 - 62
The Clipper are already leveling out after a very hot start. But, they have manage to maintain the best defensive rating. One biggest difference of this Clippers from the previous years is the focus of Blake Griffin on the defensive end. If he can sustain that, they could even go beyond the Extensive Range.
LOS ANGELES LAKERS
Extensive Range: 25 - 34
Definite Range: 25 - 29
I was a Luke Walton believer but he even went beyond my expectations in this one. But, that is only in the win column because the numbers are not totally impressive. They have the sixth worst net rating and they are giving up the worst FG% at 47.7%. Luke could be a great coach in winning games but maybe his roster is not yet that polish to sustain it.
PHOENIX SUNS
Extensive Range: 32 - 41
Definite Range: 34 - 38
I am one of those who believe that the Suns could surprise the world this year. Unfortunately, they met expectations in this early season by winning just six games in 20 tries. They are currently the fastest team in the league but they have the 10th worst FG% and sixth worst in effective FG. Maybe, this one will also be a mistake but I saw some light in their defense.
SACRAMENTO KINGS
Extensive Range: 37 - 46
Definite Range: 42 - 46
Coach Dave has failed me so far. I thought, he has the ability to control Demarcus Cousins and his supporting cast. Of course, their biggest bright spot remains Demarcus Cousins who is currently producing 29.1 points, 38.3% 3FG, 10.5 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.2 steals and 1.4 blocks per game. Maybe, coach Dave just need time to find the best way to maximize Demarcus.