The NBA finals are rapidly approaching; four teams remain, and only one will prevail. 

The Dallas Mavericks have shown resilience throughout the NBA playoffs with small forward Luka Doncic and standout rookie, small forward Derrick Lively. 

 Under the leadership of their coach, Jason Kidd, the Mavericks can develop effective game plans and make game-altering adjustments throughout a series which maximizes their chances of winning. As displayed in game six against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Doncic has an excellent mindset even when the team is trailing. This is a key part of what makes Doncic one of the NBA’s best playmakers.

The Minnesota Timberwolves continue to show that you can still compete for a championship regardless of how young you are.  Point guard Anthony Edwards and center Karl Anthony-Towns have led the youthful team to several victories against some of the league’s best teams. 

Most recently, they eliminated the Denver Nuggets in game 6 of their series. 

Towns’s build and dominant force on both ends of the floor, as well as his capability of scoring in the paint and protecting the rim, make him a force to be reckoned with.

Edwards is an explosive scorer, especially when he is on a hot streak. His speed and ability to guard the perimeter are also what make him an absolute menace in the NBA.

Led by Franchise cornerstone small forward Jayson Tatum, the Boston Celtics have been an irresistible force in the league for decades. Their history of winning championships stems from good team organization and overall management.  Tatum’s three-point

ability, along with his dexterity, deeply impacts the Celtics  game plans.  Fans have even compared Tatum to Celtics legend small forward Larry Bird.  The Celtics have also historically been known for their defensive prowess, and they have the personnel to maintain that reputation. Players like power forward Marcus Smart can anchor the team’s defense and make life difficult for opposing offenses.

The Indiana Pacers have had their ups and downs throughout the last decade, and this year could be the year for them. Players like shooting guard Tyrese

Haliburton and power forward Pascal Siakam have hit the ground running since being traded to the Pacers; Siakam already has experience in these situations, having won a championship with the Toronto Raptors. Haliburton was traded from the Sacramento Kings, and since then, he has emerged as one of the team leaders of the Pacers. 

Not to mention as an underdog, the Pacers could use the label as motivation. Playing with a chip on their shoulder and proving doubters wrong could fuel their determination and drive in the semi-finals.

After analyzing all of the remaining teams, the finals will showcase the Dallas Mavericks against the Boston Celtics with the Mavericks finishing the job by game 5 of the series.