5. Golden State Warriors
Marquee summer move: Trading Kevin Durant for D’Angelo Russell
In the end, I couldn’t put the Golden State Warriors lower than the third-best team in the Western Conference. I tried to sell the Rockets and Jazz here, but wouldn’t be able to justify my motives with honesty. And, quite frankly, I still believe the Warriors are going to be a tough out this season, certainly in the playoffs.
Stephen Curry is still in the prime of his career and could be in for a huge season, with Kevin Durant headed East, Draymond Green is still an elite defender and do-it-all offensive player, D’Angelo Russell is certainly a positive addition, and Kaly Thompson will have a huge impact on the second half of the season.
It might be trendy to say that the Warriors are going to struggle this season, but I’d be shocked if this team wasn’t a contender by the end of the season. They might need some time to gel, but once they do the Warriors will be considered one of the most dangerous teams in the West.