Phil Jackson’s old rule says these 3 NBA teams are the only serious contenders for the 2025 title…
As the NBA season progresses beyond the All-Star break, Phil Jackson’s renowned “40-before-20” rule offers insight into the league’s true championship contenders. This principle posits that teams reaching 40 wins before incurring 20 losses are the most legitimate title threats. Historically, this benchmark has been a reliable predictor, with 16 of the last 17 champions meeting this criterion.
In the current 2024-2025 season, three teams have achieved this standard: the Cleveland Cavaliers, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Boston Celtics.
Cleveland Cavaliers (47-10):Leading the NBA, the Cavaliers have showcased a potent combination of offensive prowess and defensive solidity. Under head coach Kenny Atkinson, the team has flourished, with the dynamic backcourt duo of Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell complemented by a formidable frontcourt featuring Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. The mid-season acquisition of De’Andre Hunter has further bolstered their lineup, enhancing their championship aspirations.
Oklahoma City Thunder (45-10) Dominating the Western Conference, the Thunder’s success is largely attributed to MVP frontrunner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. His leadership, combined with the contributions of versatile forward Jalen Williams and defensive anchor Chet Holmgren, has solidified OKC’s status as a formidable contender. Strategic additions like Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein have further strengthened their roster, positioning them well for a deep playoff run.
Boston Celtics (40-16):As the defending champions, the Celtics continue to demonstrate their elite status. The team’s core, led by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, remains intact, providing stability and experience. Role players like Payton Pritchard have stepped up, with Pritchard emerging as a potential Sixth Man of the Year candidate. The Celtics’ balanced attack and defensive tenacity make them a persistent threat in the postseason.
While other teams, such as the New York Knicks, Denver Nuggets, and Memphis Grizzlies, have shown promise, they have yet to meet the 40-before-20 benchmark, casting doubt on their championship viability according to Jackson’s rule. As the season unfolds, the performances of the Cavaliers, Thunder, and Celtics will be closely monitored to see if they can translate regular-season success into postseason glory.
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