NBA: Way-too-early playoff predictions for the 2021-22 season

3. Golden State Warriors

To me, the Golden State Warriors represent the most intriguing team in the Western Conference this upcoming season. The big question is whether that intrigue will actually translate to on-the-court success.

They are hoping that they will get Klay Thompson back healthy this year after suffering two major injuries in back-to-back seasons, Stephen Curry looked a lot like his old self last season, and even though Draymond Green has taken a couple of steps back in his overall game, he still one of the most fierce defensive players in the league.

If this team can get its young players to play at a high level, there’s a chance that the Warriors can emerge as a darkhorse contender win the NBA championship next season. Whether or not they can do that remains to be seen, but there’s no question that this is going to be a team that you absolutely need to follow throughout the season.