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As I sit here watching the playoffs unfold, I can't help but feel that this NBA season has mirrored the leveling system from Elden Ring's Shadow Realm in fascinating ways. Just like how Scadutree Fragments scattered throughout the Land of Shadow give players increased attack power and damage negation, certain NBA teams have been collecting their own version of these power-ups throughout the season. The Celtics, for instance, have been gathering their metaphorical fragments since October, building what I believe is the most complete roster in the league. Their current championship odds sit at +180, and frankly, I think that might still be undervaluing them.
When I look at Denver at +350, I see a team that reminds me of those experienced players who understand the Shadow Realm mechanics perfectly. They've been here before, they know what it takes, and Nikola Jokic is essentially their Revered Spirit Ash - making everyone around him better in ways that don't always show up in traditional stats. The way he elevates role players is remarkable, and I'd argue he's increased their effective power level by at least 15-20% through his playmaking alone. The Nuggets have this quiet confidence about them that makes me think they could definitely repeat, though their path through the Western Conference will be absolutely brutal.
Now, the Mavericks at +800 present what I consider the most intriguing value bet. Luka Doncic is having what might be historically great playoff run, and much like how Torrent gets boosted in the Shadow Realm, Kyrie Irving has been playing at an entirely different level in these playoffs. Their offensive rating of 118.7 in the postseason would have led the league during the regular season by a significant margin. I've watched every game of their playoff run, and there's something special happening there - they're playing with a kind of synchronized intensity that you rarely see from teams that haven't been together for years.
The Timberwolves at +900 are fascinating because they remind me of players who entered the Shadow Realm unprepared. They started the playoffs looking like they were on the back foot, but through what Anthony Edwards has brought to the table, they've found their Scadutree Fragments in dramatic fashion. Edwards' playoff averages of 31.6 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 6.2 assists are video game numbers, and I've been particularly impressed with his defensive intensity. The way he's elevated his game makes me think Minnesota could surprise people, though I'm still not completely sold on their half-court offense when things get tight.
What's interesting to me about Boston's position is how they've managed their rotation throughout the season. They've essentially been collecting their power-ups while keeping their core fresh, much like how wise players conserve their resources in the Shadow Realm until they really need them. Jayson Tatum's usage rate has actually decreased slightly from the regular season, but his efficiency has improved across the board. That tells me they're playing smarter, not just harder, which is crucial for championship teams.
I've been covering the NBA for twelve years now, and this might be the most balanced final four I've seen since 2014. Each team brings something unique to the table, and they've all followed different paths to get here. The Celtics have been methodical, the Nuggets experienced, the Mavericks explosive, and the Timberwolves resilient. If I were putting money down today, I'd probably go with Boston because of their depth and consistency, but my heart keeps pulling me toward Dallas because of how electrifying they've been to watch.
The championship picture will ultimately come down to which team can maintain their elevated level when the pressure is highest. Just like in the Shadow Realm where all Tarnished start on equal footing, these teams have reached the point where past advantages matter less than current performance. The team that can execute under pressure, make in-game adjustments, and have their stars deliver in crucial moments will emerge victorious. Based on what I've seen, Boston has the slight edge, but I wouldn't be surprised by any of these four raising the trophy. They've all earned their spot here, and the final chapters of this NBA season promise to be absolutely thrilling.