The Warriors are poised to make another strong title run. The team that featured the death lineup last year has become stronger with the addition of Nick Young and Rookie Jordan Bell. However, I applaud the other teams in the league for trying. By making aggressive move to become stronger four teams stand out in being capable of defeating this team.
The next team is the perennial contender which should never be counted out the Spurs. Kawhi Leonard has earned buzz as the potential MVP candidate next year. It would take a special kind of year in order to give the Warriors a run for there money. The Spurs supplemental stars Pau Gasol, Tony Parker, and Lemarcus Aldridge have to step up their games to complete. Last year the Spurs gave the Warriors a scare, and Greg Poppovich is the only coach that could be able to defeat the mastery of the Warriors with tactical skill in seven games. Kawhi Leonard's nagging injury is a concern however.
The next team is the Houston Rockets. Chemistry is not a question like Cleveland. Chris Paul chose to play with James Harden, and they both were together all summer building a strong bond. The only problem is roles. Will Harden relegate ball handling duties and focus on scoring? Will Paul accept the lack of defensive focus in a D'Antoni system? For me the answers to those questions is yes. But this team lacks the depth to truly take on the Warriors and defense is still a concern.
The Oklahoma City Thunder are an enigma. All I can say is that with Hoodie Melo they should sweep the Warriors. However, unless the league allows Melo to wear a Hoodie during the series with the Warriors this teams chances are slim. There are questions regarding chemistry and roster depth. Also many players are defensive liabilities. If this team is to succeed Coach Billy Donovan must fill the teams glaring holes. However, I lack the fate that he will succeed. Especially because of Kevin Durant's comments about him.
Basketball is back. The excitement is here. The Warriors are still the clear favorite. However, it seems that in a few years or maybe in next year the league will catch up and the team will truly be challenged for the titles.