As a Chicago-born, data-driven sports analyst with a passion for global basketball culture, I'm calling out the hype: the Rockets and Mavericks are being overrated. The West is still led by Thunder and Nuggets — everyone else? Just mid-tier contenders. Let’s break down why ‘fan favorite’ stats don’t equal real playoff readiness. Spoiler: defense, health, and team chemistry matter more than highlight reels.