NBA Predictions 2019-2020: Standings For Western And Eastern Conference, Finals Matchup, MVP Pick

Kawhi Leonard Los Angeles Clippers — Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers dribbles during a 111-91 Denver Nuggets preseason win at Staples Center on October 10, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. Harry How/Getty Images

The start of the 2019-2020 NBA season brings with it more intrigue than any season in recent years. Now that the Golden State Warriors’ dynasty has been broken up and LeBron James no longer rules the Eastern Conference, several teams seem to have a legitimate chance at making a run to the NBA Finals.

The Western Conference is wide open now that Kevin Durant is on the other coast and Klay Thompson will miss much of the year. The East is largely thought to be a two-team race between the Milwaukee Bucks and Philadelphia 76ers.

Kawhi Leonard teamed up with Paul George to make the Los Angeles Clippers the favorites. The Los Angeles Lakers aren’t far behind with Lebron James and Anthony Davis. The Houston Rockets might have an equally high ceiling as both L.A. teams with Russell Westbrook joining James Harden in the backcourt.

The Utah Jazz should be improved after a 50-win season. The Denver Nuggets are in the mix, as well, coming off a season in which they were the West’s No.2 seed. The Portland Trail Blazers are looking to prove that their trip to the conference finals was no fluke.

It’ll be interesting to see what the Warriors can do with Stephen Curry and Draymond Green surrounded by a bunch of new players. Can Zion Williamson lead the New Orleans Pelicans to the playoffs? What about the Dallas Mavericks’ postseason chances with Luka Doncic playing alongside Kristaps Porzingis?

The Toronto Raptors aren't expected to successfully defend their championship now that Leonard is gone, but they could still be among the best teams in the conference. The Boston Celtics will be interesting with Kemba Walker on the team. The same goes for Kyrie Irving and the Brooklyn Nets.

The bottom 10 or so teams in the East might not even have a .500 record if they played in the West.

Here are predictions for the complete standings in the upcoming NBA season, as well as pick for the 2020 NBA Finals and the MVP award.

Eastern Conference

1) Milwaukee Bucks

2) Philadelphia 76ers

3) Boston Celtics

4) Toronto Raptors

5) Brooklyn Nets

6) Miami Heat

7) Indiana Pacers

8) Detroit Pistons

9) Chicago Bulls