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NBA: Predicting The 2016-17 Western Conference Playoff Field

By Michael Saenz

Jul 7, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Kevin Durant poses for a photo with his jersey during a press conference after signing with the Golden State Warriors at the Warriors Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 7, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Kevin Durant poses for a photo with his jersey during a press conference after signing with the Golden State Warriors at the Warriors Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /
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May 8, 2016; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) reacts after a play against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the fourth quarter in game four of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports
May 8, 2016; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) reacts after a play against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the fourth quarter in game four of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /

2. San Antonio Spurs

Projected Starting Lineup: Tony Parker, Danny Green, Kawhi Leonard, LaMarcus Aldridge, Pau Gasol

The San Antonio Spurs essentially replaced Tim Duncan with Pau Gasol this summer. After Timmy decided to hang it up after 19 years, the Spurs will ask the 36-year-old center to hold down the fort for the 2016-17 season.

While Gasol is no longer a viable defensive force, what he lacks on that side of the ball he more than makes up for on the offensive end. At 35, with the Chicago Bulls last season, Gasol still managed to averaged 17 points and 11 rebounds per game. He won’t be asked to replicate those same counting numbers with the Spurs, but if he can averaged just 10 and 8, I’m sure the Spurs will be content.

Will the addition of Gasol be enough to combat what the Warriors have done this offseason, though?

Next: No. 1

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