As it is not shown through their current playoff records, many of the NBA’s underdog teams are on the hunt for a post-season run to prove that they can play with the best of them.
On April 25, the Miami Heat were able to rebound from a 3-0 series deficit against the Boston Celtics as All-Star Dwayne Wade went for 46 points to keep their post-season hopes alive, winning 101-92.
What may be more surprising, however, is the contest between #1 seed Los Angeles and the #8 seeded Oklahoma Thunder of the Western Conference. Backed by Kevin Durant, the youngest player to ever win the NBA’s regular season scoring title at 30.1 ppg, the Thunder built a strong lead early on and never looked back, winning 110-89.
It may not be likely, but for a change, it may be nice to see one of the league’s most overshadowed teams continue their journey toward an NBA Championship as a big- name franchise is sent packing early.
These teams may not be stacked with elite talent, but they certainly have the individual prowess to make something happen.