Celtics to Dethrone Thunder in NBA Finals

Merlin sees the regular season closing and the playoff map shaping. Detroit, Boston and New York top the East while Cleveland, Atlanta and Philadelphia hold 4 through 6; Toronto, Charlotte, Orlando and Miami head to the play-in. In the West Oklahoma City and San Antonio lead, with Lakers, Nuggets, Rockets and Timberwolves chasing and Suns, Clippers, Trail Blazers and Warriors in the play-in. Key dates: regular season ends April 12, play-in April 14 to 17, playoffs April 18, Finals start June 3. Merlin notes a top-heavy East and chaotic West. Detroit’s depth without Cade Cunningham and Boston’s 8-2 run with Jayson Tatum back stand out. "The 76ers are healthy and playing some of their best basketball at the right time." Oklahoma City looks like the West favorite for its cohesion, but the conference is wide open.