Feb 9, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) and forward Kevin Durant (35) during the game against the Denver Nuggets at Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
4. Oklahoma City Thunder
Key Additions: Cameron Payne
Just because Kevin Durant is expected to return to full health this season doesn’t necessarily mean that the Oklahoma City Thunder will automatically be NBA Championship contenders again.
While they’ll be in the mix, this team has to prove that they can thrive together when it matters. With Enes Kanter, they simply haven’t proved that. The Thunder might have two of the five best players on the same roster, but by no means does that automatically equate to a ring.
Plus, Durant also needs to prove that he can return to form as well. Assuming that he can though, which is not a sure thing when it comes to foot injuries, the Thunder should be in the running for the best team in the Western Conference.
Seeing Russell Westbrook playing alongside Durant again next season should be gratifying. We should enjoy it while it lasts.
If the Warriors take a step back this season, which is possible, and the Spurs don’t click as well as many expect them to, the Thunder will be willing and ready to pick up the pieces out West.
Next: Golden State Warriors