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2026 NBA playoffs: Clinching scenarios and standings on March 17

Tuesday features eight games in the NBA, with several key matchups and a Western Conference clinching scenario to monitor throughout the evening.

The Western Conference standings have become a rolling roadblock for the stretch run

On January 23, the Suns sat in the seventh seed in the Western Conference. They have not left it. The standings have held them there like gravity. Phoenix has spent 78% of the season living in that spot.

Where Raptors Stand in Crowded Eastern Conference Play-In Picture

The Toronto Raptors are fighting to stay out of the Play-In Tournament.

Why Lakers must claim 3-seed in Western Conference playoff picture

ESPN NBA analyst Brian Windhorst explained what seed the Lakers need in the Western Conference playoffs picture.

Taking A Peek at the Western Conference Standings Halfway Through March

The Western Conference playoff race intensifies as close battles for home court advantage heat up, with key matchups shaping the final standings.

Why Raptors Aren't Higher in the Standings

The Toronto Raptors are in fifth place in the Eastern Conference, but they could be even better.