2. Golden State Warriors
The Golden State Warriors come in at No. 2 on this list and it should not be that much of a surprise. In fact, there are probably many thinking that this team represents the most dangerous lower-seeded team in the NBA Playoffs this season. And perhaps rightfully so. The Warriors are finally healthy and appear to have nearly everyone ready to go for the start of the playoffs. The problem is, this is a team that has struggled mightily this season and I’m not sure if all of a sudden, they’re just going to figure it all out.
On one hand, they are the defending NBA Champions and should probably get the benefit of the doubt here but on the other hand, this is a team that has failed to answer the call time and time again this season. Is the start of the NBA Playoffs the motivation that they needed all along? Perhaps. I’m going to have to see it to believe it.
The good news is that the Warriors got a good draw in the first round, or at least the best possible draw, with the Sacramento Kings. There’s reason to believe that the Kings’ regular season success may not translate to the postseason. If so, the Warriors will be in a position to take advantage.