A Complete Guide to the 2017 NBA Standings and Playoff Picture

Looking back at the 2017 NBA season, I still get chills thinking about how dramatically the playoff picture evolved. As someone who’s tracked the league for over a decade, I’ve rarely seen a year where conference standings shifted so unpredictably, especially in the final weeks. The Warriors, of course, dominated the West with a staggering 67–15 record—honestly, that team felt almost untouchable at times. But what really stood out to me was the fierce competition for the lower seeds, where every game felt like a playoff matchup in itself. Teams like the Trail Blazers and Thunder clawed their way in, while others, sadly, fell just short. It’s that kind of intensity that reminds me of the passion I’ve seen in international leagues, including those back in the Philippines. I remember hearing about Filipino teams like SGA and Zamboanga Valientes joining regional tournaments, and the way their organizers emphasized creating a clear, fair structure to avoid past issues. That mindset—wanting to “make a statement,” as one official put it—resonates deeply with how the NBA’s playoff format pushes teams to prove their worth, not just for themselves but for the leagues they represent.

The Western Conference was an absolute gauntlet in 2017, and I’ll admit, I spent more nights than I should have glued to League Pass, watching every twist and turn. Golden State’s dominance was expected, but the Spurs quietly putting up 61 wins? That’s the kind of consistency that earns my respect. Kawhi Leonard was a two-way force, and Gregg Popovich’s system just never seems to age. Meanwhile, Houston’s 55–27 record under Mike D’Antoni felt like a revival of Seven Seconds or Less, but with James Harden as the engine—a joy to watch, even if their defense made me cringe sometimes. Down the standings, the race for seeds 5 through 8 was pure chaos. The Clippers, Jazz, and Grizzlies all finished within a few games of each other, and Oklahoma City’s 47–35 run, fueled by Russell Westbrook’s historic MVP season, was must-see TV. I’ve always had a soft spot for underdogs, so seeing teams like Portland sneak into the 8th spot with a 41–41 record felt rewarding, even if they were clearly outmatched against Golden State. It’s a reminder that in sports, whether in the NBA or leagues abroad, the fight for recognition often hinges on seizing opportunities when they arise—much like how emerging teams in the Philippines aim to establish their legacy by learning from past missteps.

Over in the East, the narrative was different but equally compelling, at least for me. Boston’s 53–29 record secured them the top seed, though I’ve always thought they benefited from a weaker conference overall. LeBron’s Cavaliers, finishing 51–31, seemed to coast through the regular season—understandable, given their Finals pedigree, but it left me wondering if they’d regret not pushing harder. The Raptors and Wizards rounded out the top half with solid campaigns, but what really caught my eye was Miami’s late surge to 41–41, just missing the playoffs on a tiebreaker. As a fan, that kind of heartbreak sticks with you. It’s similar to how teams in growing leagues, like those Filipino squads, face uphill battles to avoid repeating past struggles. When I read about organizers vowing to “make a statement” for future participants, it hit home—because in the NBA, every game matters, and legacy is built on avoiding those same old pitfalls.

The playoff bracket itself delivered unforgettable moments, many of which I’ve rewatched countless times. Golden State’s 16–1 run to the title was historic, but let’s be real—it also highlighted the league’s growing parity issues. Meanwhile, Boston and Cleveland’s Eastern Conference Finals clash had drama for days, with LeBron’s iconic performances reminding us why he’s the GOAT in my book. On the international front, I see parallels in how leagues structure their playoffs to foster growth. For instance, the emphasis on clear rules and fair play in Philippine basketball mirrors the NBA’s efforts to balance competition, ensuring that teams—whether established or new—have a shot to shine without past issues holding them back.

Reflecting on it all, the 2017 standings weren’t just about numbers; they told stories of resilience, ambition, and sometimes, painful lessons. I believe that’s what makes basketball so universal—whether you’re following the NBA or leagues in the Philippines, the drive to compete and leave a mark is what fuels the game. And as someone who’s seen seasons come and go, I’m convinced that the best moments arise when teams, like those Filipino squads aiming to set examples, embrace the challenge head-on.