Lets not even mess around, the Western Conference is Golden State’s to lose. The addition of Kevin Durant to an already stacked roster has the Warriors as one of the biggest preseason favorites to with the NBA Championship in modern history. The Warriors chased history last season and came up short so expect them to join the “rest the key player” parade that we’ve seen the likes of Cleveland and San Antonio do.
The ‘off the road’ pick in the Western Conference is Houston winning the Southwest. With rumors of LaMarcus Aldridge’s discontent along with Ginobli and Parker being a year older and Duncan retiring, it’s time of Pop’s soldiers to take a step back. Houston is built pretty solid for a good regular season and will surprise some (not me) and be one of the division winners.
In the Pacific division, look for the Suns to make a good jump this season. Devin Booker is developing into being a top flight player and if Eric Bledsoe can stay healthy they make a dynamic duo. Tyson Chandler is still a decent rim protector and they will get a punch off the bench from Leandro Barbosa. Keep an eye on rookie Dragan Bender’s development.
By far the Northwest Division is the toughest. OKC will take a step back without Kevin Durant and Minnesota and Utah are on the up and coming list. Portland should win the division with Damian Lillard. Re-signing Allen Crabbe, even at a premium price tag, was a must and adding Evan Turner should give Portland even more of scoring punch.
Top Team in the Conference: Golden St.
Top Player in the Conference: Steph Curry
Teams fighting for the 8th spot: Dallas, Phoenix, Memphis, and Oklahoma City
(Playoff teams in Bold)
Southwest Division
Houston
San Antonio
Dallas
Memphis
New Orleans
Pacific Division
Golden St.
Los Angeles Clippers
Phoenix
Los Angeles Lakers
Sacramento
Northwest Division
Portland
Minnesota
Utah
Oklahoma City
Denver
Marcus “Mook” Washington is the host of Making The Cut. Follow Mook on Twitter: @mtcwithmook and IG: MTCWithMook
