The San Antonio Spurs are the overwhelming favorites (on paper) to make it all the way to the NBA Finals and perhaps snag another NBA title. Such was evident when they landed LaMarcus Aldridge and then David West, a solid frontline that should be something to see.
But the thing is, there are other teams standing in their way.
One team that Gregg Popovich and his wards should be wary of is the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Thunder are, of course, looking to rebound after missing the NBA playoffs last year, largely due to injuries to the main stars.
Kevin Durant hardly played in the 2014–15 NBA season while Russell Westbrook had his struggles with injuries as well. In all, the Thunder have reason to bounce back hard and recall their winning ways and such is something that Spurs may want to consider.
Aside from the return of Durant and Westbrook, the team comes with a decent lineup. There is Enes Kanter, Serge Ibaka and Dion Waiters, who, if paired up with Durant and Westbrook, could account for a pretty deadly combination on the hardwood.
Then there is Billy Donovan who replaced Scott Brook at head coaching duties. The famed Florida Gators coach will have his baptism of fire so it will be interesting how he whips up the Thunder for the coming season.
Now aside from the Thunder, there are other teams to be worried about as well. The Los Angeles Clippers, Memphis Grizzlies and the Golden State Warriors comprise the pretty tough NBA Western conference, so coach Popovich will still have to do his share of preparing for these souped up teams.
The coming season should be better for the Thunder, especially if everyone stays healthy. They will likely reach the 60-win plateau for regular seasons, but things could get a whole lot serious once the NBA playoffs come around.
And hopefully the Thunder and the Spurs don't end up facing in the early rounds!
