The NBA season is just around the corner. This means that, with a little less than a week until things tip off, basketball fans can expect two things from people who get paid to analyze the game: Predictions, and far more importantly, bold predictions.
One fun bold prediction comes by way of Paul Pierce, who is now retired and sitting behind the analyst desk for ESPN. Pierce was asked to give a “crazy prediction” for this upcoming season, and went with something that isn’t too terribly out there, but is still a pretty unique take.
In Pierce’s eyes, neither the Cleveland Cavaliers nor the Golden State Warriors will win be crowned champions this season. In fact, Pierce doesn’t even think Golden State will survive the Western Conference.
Paul Pierce was asked for a 🔥 prediction … and he delivered. pic.twitter.com/ajqR2BFJAc
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) October 12, 2017
Oklahoma City spent all offseason trying to construct a team that is capable of making it through the West and hoisting the Larry O’Brien Trophy, trading for Carmelo Anthony and Paul George at various points this summer. In Pierce’s eyes — well, at least his eyes that were looking for a bold prediction — it was enough to take down both of the teams that have won championships recently.
Also, he predicts that this will happen with Russell Westbrook “being the MVP.” Pierce doesn’t specify if that means regular season MVP or the Finals MVP, but either way, the Thunder faithful would love to see Westbrook lift a few more trophies this season.
