Realistic NBA Playoff Series I Desperately Want To See This Spring

As we enter NBA All-Star Weekend, the playoff race is about to heat up. Following a chaotic trade deadline that shook the league, the chase for the Larry O'Brien Trophy feels more unpredictable than ever. The Western Conference was shaken by Luka Dončić and Anthony Davis switching teams, while Jimmy Butler joining the Warriors adds intrigue. Several other transactions have injected much-needed excitement into the remainder of the season. The stage is set for some truly great playoff matchups.

As the postseason approaches, here are some series I hope we get to see.

Los Angeles Lakers vs. Los Angeles Clippers

Can we get this already? While it has been wanted for years, a playoff battle for Los Angeles has never come to fruition. I need this now even more know that both teams have their own arenas. The Clippers, still led by Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, have surpassed expectations this season, while the Lakers, retooled following the Anthony Davis deal, are counting on Luka Dončić, a Clipper killer for years, to carry them alongside LeBron James. The sheer star power in this matchup is undeniable. The world needs the battle for Los Angeles.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Dallas Mavericks

The Mavericks were in the NBA Finals a year ago. They now run the risk of missing the playoffs completely because to the Luka Dončić trade and injuries to Anthony Davis and other players. If they manage to get in, it will probably be as a lower seed, which may lead to a first-round matchup with the Oklahoma City Thunder, the top team in the Western Conference. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading a deep, well-balanced team, the Thunder are and deserve to be one of the favorites to win it all. Dallas, on the other hand, would be a fascinating matchup for OKC, despite their difficulties, they have had the Thunder's number this season.  A clash between these two is something I hope we see.

Memphis Grizzlies vs. Golden State Warriors

The Warriors and Grizzlies have a history. These teams have developed a genuine hostility toward each other through heated playoff battles and off-court chatter. Could we see another postseason matchup as both teams look to return to the playoffs after missing out last year? The Jimmy Butler subplot adds even more intrigue—he reportedly refused to play for the Grizzlies after forcing his way out of Miami before joining the Warriors. That alone could make this series even more intense.

Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks

For basketball fans, a Celtics-Knicks playoff series would be incredible. These are two teams built to compete right now, backed by passionate fan bases and rich histories. The defending NBA champions, led by Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and a strong supporting cast, are gearing up for another deep postseason run. Meanwhile, the Knicks are rising once again under Jalen Brunson’s leadership, with a resilient roster that now features newcomers Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges.

It’s been a long time since both franchises were this good at the same time, setting the stage for what could be an all-time classic in this rivalry. The atmosphere at Madison Square Garden would be electric. With the intensity, physicality, and history between these teams, this is exactly the kind of series the NBA needs. Plus, Kristaps Porziņģis returning to New York would add even more drama.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Los Angeles Lakers

A second or third round matchup with the top-seeded Thunder may be in the cards if the Lakers can maintain the high caliber of play we've seen from them recently. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and the young Thunder would face off against LeBron James, Luka Dončić, and the seasoned Lakers, putting playoff experience against a youth Thunder squad. OKC has arguably been the best team in the league this season, but facing a playoff-tested Lakers squad led by James and Doncic could really test them. With contrasting styles and age gaps, this could turn into one of the better series of the postseason.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Cleveland Cavaliers- NBA Finals

It would be quite refreshing to see the Oklahoma City Thunder face the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Finals. After the same old contenders have dominated the attention in recent years, it would be fascinating to see these two teams compete for the title. Both teams have been the best in basketball all year to this point. The Cavaliers, with an exciting mix of veterans and young players like Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley, have taken over the East, while the Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and featuring a talented, youthful team, have proven themselves as the best team in the West. This series would be a showcase of two hungry, exciting squads, who built their way up to contention.