Golden State Warriors: Ranking 5 biggest challengers in West

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 15: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers shoots over Andrew Wiggins #22 of the Golden State Warriors during the second half of an NBA basketball game at Chase Center on March 15, 2021 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 15: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers shoots over Andrew Wiggins #22 of the Golden State Warriors during the second half of an NBA basketball game at Chase Center on March 15, 2021 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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Golden State Warriors (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
Golden State Warriors (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

Los Angeles Lakers are the biggest threat to Golden State Warriors

It is easy to scoff at the age of this Los Angeles Lakers’ team. Names like Carmelo Anthony, Russell Westbrook and Trevor Ariza do not hold the same weight they used to.

But… it is hard to overlook a team that has both Anthony Davis AND LeBron James. Even in LBJ’s age, he is a force to be reckoned with in every way. With a full summer to rest, James is sure to be on a mission to win another title.

The same goes for Davis, who never really got his feet under him last season. Davis is one of the greatest two-way players to ever grace the hardwood and has always found a way to give the Warriors trouble.

What’s more, we should acknowledge the run Russell Westbrook finished the season on. He averaged a triple double again and posted 23.4 points, 14.1 assists and 13.5 rebounds across the final 18 games of the Washington Wizard’s season. Westbrook provides energy for a team that might coast at times during the regular season.

Malik Monk is also an underrated addition. A versatile wing who can handle the ball and create for others, Monk does a lot to divert attention away from his star teammates.

When it comes down to it, LeBron and Curry will always give each other a challenge. The two are constantly dueling and next season will be no different.