6. Golden State Warriors
Last season’s record and finish: 57-25: 1st place in the West; NBA runner-up
Key Returning Players: Stephen Curry, Draymond Green and Klay Thompson (out until at least February)
Key Departing Players: Kevin Durant, Andre Iguodala, Shaun Livingston
Key Newcomers: D’Angelo Russell, Willie Cauley-Stein
Even with Curry, Green and former Laker Russell, the five-time defending Western Conference champions should fall back in the pack. The past couple of seasons they coasted during the regular season, then turned on the switch in the playoffs. But without Durant, Iguodala, the under-rated Livingston and Thompson for most of, if not the whole season, they won’t have that luxury this year.
Curry will face even more double-teams than usual. How well he holds up physically is questionable. Also, their defense won’t be nearly as strong this season. The Lakers (especially Davis and James) and other teams should be able to exploit them inside. Rebounding may be a concern as well.
Bottom line: the Warriors are not likely to challenge in the West during the regular season, and may even have trouble qualifying for the postseason, where their experience would make them tougher to beat.