Golden State Warriors: 5 west teams that could challenge
By Mark Gunnels
1. Spurs are the biggest threat
This past season, many were caught off guard when the San Antonio Spurs came to an erupt halt at the hands of the Oklahoma City Thunder, who defeated Greg Popovic’s ball club in six games.
Nonetheless, the Spurs still poise the biggest threat to Golden State for several reasons.
Throughout the regular season, all we heard about was the greatness of the Warriors and deservedly so, but at the same time, San Antonio ‘quietly’ won 67 games, which was only six games behind Golden State, who ended up breaking the ’96-97 Chicago Bulls record.
We’re still not sure if 15-time all-star Tim Duncan will retire or not, but assuming he does, San Antonio upgraded at that position with Pau Gasol, who has plenty left in the tank.
In Chicago last season, Gasol averaged 16.5 points, 11 rebounds and two blocks in 31.8 minutes per game.
With the loss of Bogut, San Antonio will have a major advantage inside with LaMarcus Aldridge and Gasol.
Yes, Golden State has the clear edge on the perimeter, but with two-time Defensive Player of the Year Kawhi Leonard, San Antonio should be able to slow them down a bit.
In the playoffs, we all know the game slows down, which plays right into San Antonio’s hands in a potential matchup.
Next: Los Angeles Clippers