With Golden State’s sweet and dynastic run of the past five years essentially over after Durant and Thompson’s Achilles injuries (which would sideline both for most if not all of next season), it’s time to think about which team in the West will take the opportunity to rise to the top. Hereunder is our list.
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| Image source: unbalanced.media |
Assuming that the team manages to bring back its core of Chris Paul, James Harden, Clint Capela, Eric Gordon, and P.J. Tucker, this coming season may just be the opportunity the Rockets are waiting for to get that coveted title.
Portland Trailblazers
This past year’s other Western Conference finalist were lacking the services of Jusuf Nurkic when it battled the Warriors, which proved to be its downfall, as nobody could contain Green, Looney, and Cousins in the middle. A healthy lineup next season will make the Blazers the team a favorite.
Denver Nuggets
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Image source: theringer.com
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Having finally had solid playoffs experience, the only way is up for the young Nuggets team. Expect Nikola Jokic to further improve his game, dominate, and possibly even win the MVP this 2019-2o season.
OKC Thunder
As with the other teams above, an intact roster should get Westbrook and George back as playoffs favorites. Adding one or two solid two-way players this free agency should take the team over the top.
L.A. Lakers
The Lakers are committed to taking it all this season despite missing the playoffs last year. The tandem of LeBron James and Anthony Davis certainly is a winning formula. The team just needs to find a way to surround them with the right players.
L.A. Clippers
If the Clippers manage to snatch Kawhi Leonard away from Toronto this offseason, then it will instantly be a contender. After all, it already has a solid, playoffs-tested roster to complement him.
Dallas Mavericks
We also cannot take for granted the Mavs, which will be bringing the European duo of Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis this coming season. It will surely be an exciting time for Mavs fans, even with the retirement of Nowitzki.
