The path to repeating will be a brand new one for the Golden State Warriors, who are prepared to face a new set of challengers to emerge in the Western Conference.
The NBA’s Western Conference has only grown stronger with numerous new challengers ready to tackle the Golden State Warriors.
Last season, the Dubs ran through a gauntlet of Denver, Memphis and Dallas on the way to a six-game NBA Finals showdown with the Boston Celtics.
This journey was respectable but full of ideal matchups for the Dubs. Denver was lacking their second-best player in Jamal Murray while Memphis dealt with injuries to Ja Morant and Desmond Bane.
As for the Mavericks, they were playing well above their weight class with Luka Doncic carrying more than he could handle.
Next time around, the Warriors could find it more difficult to reach the Finals. Here are three challengers who could emerge.
Denver Nuggets
A somewhat familiar foe, the Nuggets are led by two-time MVP, Nikola Jokic and will be back at full strength with the return of Murray and 3-point marksman, Michael Porter.
Containing Jokic was nearly impossible last season but the Dubs banked off the rest of the Nuggets being inadequate. This paid off as the Warriors won the series in five.
This won’t work again with a dynamic shot creator and efficient shooter giving Denver enough firepower to contend.
New Orleans Pelicans
The New Orleans Pelicans threatened to bump the NBA’s top seed to a pivotal Game 7 last year before Chris Paul buried them.
With Zion Williamson, the league’s most dominant paint force, returning next season — the Pelicans will be back in the mix to cause mayhem in the playoffs.
LA Clippers
Last but certainly not least, the LA Clippers will be boasting a due of the best two-way players in the NBA.
Kawhi Leonard and Paul George must stay healthy but with a lineup of John Wall, Reggie Jackson, Norman Powell, Luke Kennard and Robert Covington — this Clippers team is nothing to scoff at.
If the two superstars are able to compete, the Clippers will be the biggest threat to the Warriors’ title hopes.