The long-awaited NBA playoffs have arrived, and in the words of LeBron James, "it's a sprint now."

In Boston, a formidable 64-win team dominated the league, while the defending champions from Denver boasted 57 victories. The young and daring squad in Oklahoma City earned their top seed with merit, and a trio of Villanova graduates transformed the Knicks into true contenders.

And of course, LeBron James remains a formidable presence.

As the NBA playoffs commence, the Celtics and Nuggets emerge as the frontrunners, according to BetMGM Sportsbook, poised to potentially face off in the Finals. However, numerous teams harbor genuine aspirations of championship glory. After months of preparation, including training camp, preseason, regular season, the inaugural NBA Cup, and a play-in tournament, the league gears up with 16 teams vying for the Larry O’Brien Trophy.

Denver coach Michael Malone acknowledges the fierce competition, emphasizing that every team aims to seize the coveted championship title from the reigning champions.

The first round kicks off with four games on Saturday, including matchups between Orlando and Cleveland, Phoenix and Minnesota, Philadelphia and New York, and the Los Angeles Lakers against Denver. On Sunday, four more Game 1s await, featuring Miami versus Boston, Dallas versus the Los Angeles Clippers, Indiana versus Milwaukee, and New Orleans versus Oklahoma City.

The Thunder's remarkable rise, fueled by a youthful roster and a staggering 57 wins this season, contrasts sharply with past seasons' struggles. Meanwhile, Boston's exceptional performance throughout the season underscores their potential as a formidable force in the playoffs.

Led by Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Kristaps Porzingis, the Celtics boast a potent offensive and defensive lineup. Their acquisition of Jrue Holiday further bolsters their defense for the playoff push.

In New York, despite the absence of Julius Randle, the Knicks, led by a trio of Villanova alumni, including MVP contender Jalen Brunson, remain resilient. They face the challenge of confronting Joel Embiid and the 76ers in the first round.

As the playoffs unfold, several teams make their return to the postseason after a hiatus, including the Thunder, Indiana, and Orlando. However, surprises are inevitable in a season marked by unpredictability.

While historical trends favor top-seeded teams, this season has been anything but conventional, hinting at potential upsets in the playoffs.

As Celtics President Brad Stevens aptly notes, success in the playoffs hinges on sustained performance beyond the initial rounds.