Toronto Raptors and Phoenix Suns, dangerous underdogs or mere extras in the playoffs?

20 out of the 30 NBA teams will be competing in the postseason, and with 18 of them, there is recurring talk and high media interest and expectations. However, there are 2 franchises that go largely unnoticed by the general public and it is worth reflecting on them, namely Phoenix Suns and Toronto Raptors.

They lack a major superstar in the league, do not have a particularly media-centric history or fan base, and were far from being considered as candidates for anything significant since the beginning of the season. These are just some of the factors that may explain the absolute neglect and general silence surrounding Phoenix Suns and Toronto Raptors. The team from Arizona and the Canadians will compete to make it to the playoffs, both potentially doing so directly, yet there seems to be no high expectations placed on them.

They could turn into wolves in sheep's clothing and defy all odds in a first round where they surprise some of the favorites. Toronto Raptors has developed a good team essence, Scottie Barnes could be a key element in the playoffs, and Brandon Ingram is capable of tipping any game. They aim to avoid the play-in tournament, although it won't be easy given the upward trend of their competitors in the East.

As for Phoenix Suns, it is essential to appreciate the outstanding season they are having, overcoming all kinds of adversities and relying on the collective power and Booker's magic to maintain a privileged position in the Western Conference. It seems that the worst possible scenario for them would be to finish seventh, having two opportunities in the play-in tournament to earn their postseason spot and dream of putting up a fight against Spurs or Thunder... Or can they do even more?

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Toronto Raptors y Phoenix Suns, ¿tapados peligrosos o meros comparsas en playoffs?