Stephen A. Smith Picks West Team to Make NBA Finals: 'They're Going to the Finals'

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ryan Brooks | Last updated Dec 15, 2024 12:36 PM ET

The NBA Cup final is set. The Oklahoma City Thunder and Milwaukee Bucks will square off in Las Vegas to determine a cup champion. The extra game won't count toward their regular season record, though it will be the difference between winning $500k or $200k.

Beyond the money, winning a cup title could add some momentum to each squad. The Bucks had a major turnaround this season after an abysmal start and the Thunder are looking to make a statement as contenders.

Oklahoma City has been searching for its first NBA Finals appearance since 2012. They've emerged as contenders in the past couple of seasons, though they lost in the second round of the playoffs one season ago.

To make the NBA Finals this season would prove that the Thunder have what it takes to raise a banner with the current core of their squad.

Making the NBA Cup final might be the right step in that direction. They've got a 5-1 record in the tournament and will face off for a game with stakes behind it in December.

According to ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith, this is a step in the right direction for them to make the NBA Finals, which he projects them to do.

“I feel like they’re going to the Finals. I feel like this is one stepping stone towards that," Smith said.

The Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, are going to be legitimate threats in the playoffs. They are currently tied for the second-best record in the NBA at 20-5 -- even with the reigning champion Boston Celtics.

Chet Holmgren has missed a handful of games and will remain out for quite a while, yet the Thunder continue to look like a threat to raise their first banner since arriving in Oklahoma City.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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