The West is tough to predict, but the Thunder have the most complete roster entering the season and the assets to improve at the trade deadline. Yes, they are young and got bounced in the 2024 Western Conference semifinals. But, they can build off that experience and become the sixth different team to represent the West in the last six NBA Finals.

BONDY: Celtics over Timberwolves. It’s difficult to repeat but Boston is built for it with a core in their mid-20s. The T-Wolves take the next step into the Finals with Anthony Edwards jumping into the NBA’s top four.

The 2024-25 NBA season kicks off on Tuesday night with a pair of marquee matchups – one for each conference. The Western Conference showdown pits LeBron James and the aging Los Angeles Lakers against Anthony Edwards and the up-and-coming Minnesota Timberwolves.