The Baseline: NBA Western Conference Playoffs preview

The Baseline dives in on the Western Conference first-round matchups.

Nuggets vs Spurs

Nikola Jokic enters the playoffs for the first time against the seasoned LaMarcus Aldridge and DeMar DeRozan. Will Denver’s inexperience play into San Antonio’s hands?

Clippers vs Warriors

Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant welcome DeMarcus Cousins to their team and to the playoffs which could mean disaster for the upstart Clippers led by Lou Williams.

Blazers vs Thunder

Damian Lillard and Russell Westbrook are seeking redemption from last year’s early exits. Only one of them will get it.

Jazz vs Rockets

Donovan Mitchell and James Harden headline the series but the battle of the bigs in Clint Capella and Rudy Gobert could make all the difference.