Teams jostle for position as playoff stakes intensify

As the NBA calendar nears the March 1 waiver deadline, teams are scrambling to finalize playoff-eligible rosters while the postseason picture sharpens in both conferences. Coverage spans surging hopefuls like the Hornets and Cavaliers, league-wide concern levels for contenders such as the Celtics and Timberwolves, and nightmare matchup scenarios forming for teams like the Pistons. Analysts are also weighing the impact of Canadian stars on the 2026 playoff race and the inexperience of key benches, like the Raptors’ reserves, in high-pressure environments. Together, these storylines underline how roster decisions, injuries, and late-season momentum could redefine the bracket and upset expectations once the playoffs begin.