3. Los Angeles Lakers vs. Brooklyn Nets
Another year, another LeBron James and Kevin Durant discussion. Sprinkle in a little Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving and you’ve got yourself a heavyweight battle.
Coming off of a devastating Achilles injury, Durant will be looking to make a statement to the league. He will be eager to show that he can overcome the injury and jump back into the mix for best player in the world. It won’t be easy for him, but thanks to his gifted shooting stroke and endless wingspan it wouldn’t shock anybody to see him close to where he was prior.
Another storyline to watch for is LeBron James versus Kyrie Irving. The two appeared to leave things on sour terms following Irving’s departure from Cleveland. Although it seems as if the former teammates have patched things up, expect both parties to fight hard to secure the win.
The biggest question mark for the Los Angeles Lakers against this new-look Brooklyn Nets team is how they matchup. Despite the Lakers’ exceptional defense this past season, they often struggled against elite wing talent and quick scoring point guards. Those two positions don’t get much better than that of Durant and Irving.
Will the Lakers acquire key pieces to help match up better? How will Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving look following injuries? We will soon find out!