Golden State Warriors: 5 biggest threats to a possible repeat in 2022-23

The LA Clippers are all-in

In the Western Conference, there is a contender that no one is ready for. Yes, the No. 4 threat is the LA Clippers. Kawhi Leonard is already back and averaged 9.5 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists over the two games he played in the preseason. Paul George is healthy. John Wall is healthy.

What more do the Clippers need? Possibly nothing. Reggie Jackson, Ivica Zubac, Terance Mann, Nic Batum, Robert Covington. The list goes on and on. No team has as much talent and versatility as they do this season, with players mature and ready to compete.

Finally, the fifth possible threat, is somewhat of a surprise: Dallas Mavericks. Luka Doncic looked in great shape at the last EuroBasket, is one of the top candidates for MVP of the 2022-23 NBA season, and will have a capable supporting cast next to him.

The most important of all this is defense. Jason Kidd got Dallas to have the sixth-best defense (109.4 defensive rating) in the league, and this will only improve with the arrival of a defensive specialist like JaVale McGee and another on his way to becoming one like Christian Wood.

Welcome to one of the most evenly-matched seasons in NBA history. The Golden State Warriors will have their work cut out for them.

Who will take it at the end of the season?