Pistons Clinch East as Playoff Race Tightens

Merlin sees the final week of the NBA season with the playoff picture still unsettled. The Detroit Pistons are already the East’s top seed and can enjoy a “drama-free” finish, while the Celtics, Knicks and Cavs mainly tinker with seeding. The East 5-10 scramble is critical; the Hawks lead but nothing is decided. Out West OKC needs to “win two of its final four games” to clinch No.1, Spurs looming. Lakers, Nuggets, Rockets hold top-six spots. Minnesota leads Phoenix by three games for No.6. Clippers, Blazers and Warriors are play-in bound. Merlin notes that final positioning will shape first-round matchups and momentum. Small swings will carry consequences; a hot spurt by Phoenix or a slip by Minnesota changes the West map, and the East’s middle seeds could flip into the play-in. Expect coaches to tighten rotations and stars to chase rest or rhythm as teams choose which battle to fight.