4. Denver Nuggets
We are now looking at teams that could not only compete with the Golden State Warriors but maybe dominate them. For the first time in a long time, the Dubs are completely vulnerable to teams at the top of the league.
One team, in particular, is the Denver Nuggets. The Nuggets finished second in the Western Conference last season with a 54-28 record. Though they haven’t had any massive changes to their roster, they did gain more experience, which is all they need.
Nikola Jokic is a blooming superstar. The big man averaged an incredible 25.1 points, 13.0 rebounds and 8.4 assists per game in the postseason. Despite not being a gifted athlete, Jokic can do everything on the court and is an extremely intelligent player.
Jokic’s best games in 2019 NBA Playoffs:
- 43 points, 12 rebounds, 9 assists
- 10 points, 14 rebounds, 14 assists
- 33 points, 18 rebounds, 14 assists
- 25 points, 19 rebounds, 6 assists
Alongside Jokic is the great young duo of Jamal Murray and Gary Harris. These two rising stars can impact the game offensively while Harris has all the tools needed to be a solid defender too. With some depth on the bench, the Nuggets are going to a competitive team.
The Warriors simply won’t have an answer to Denver’s big-men. On top of this, it will be tough to deal with the tandem of Murray and Harris. The Warriors will need gigantic contributions from Klay Thompson, who might not be at 100 percent this season with his ACL injury.
A potential series between these two teams would be close. The Dubs have a chance to win, but there is also a possibility that Denver walks away with a victory in 5-6 games.