In the Jordan Era, the Eastern Conference was the dominant collection of teams. Michael's Bulls, Bird's Celtics, the rise of the Orlando Magic, the Knicks, Pacers, Heat, Sixers, Nets teams, and so on.
But in the 21st century, the West has been best. From the Lakers and Spurs dynasties to the recent Splash Bros' Warriors, there is a long list of stats that'll prove the dominance the Western Conference has shown over the East for the past 20 years. So much so, that fans and analysts were demanding that the NBA eliminates conferences altogether.
Fast forward to now...
The East is now competitive and highly interesting. The Heat, Nets, Bucks, Celtics, Sixers, Bulls all have finals potential, with Giannis and Embiid leading the MVP race, alongside Jokic in the West.
The West is now the top-heavy conference with Phoenix way out in front. Sure, the Grizzlies and Warriors are viable threats. But the East has more true contenders for the first time in a loooong time.
With all this said, I have always liked the East vs West system and don't feel a change is needed. What say you?
Should the NBA eliminate conferences?
- 0%No, things are fine the way they are
- 0%Yes, top 16 records should make the playoffs