The NBA Western Conference is wide open, with seven teams having a solid shot at the title.
With training camps starting soon, let’s look at key questions each Western Conference team faces. (Last season’s records are in parentheses.)
Dallas Mavericks (50-32): What Does Klay Thompson Have Left?
Dallas made waves by adding Klay Thompson this summer. Despite his age and injuries, he still offers elite shooting. Pairing him with Luka Doncic could be brilliant if his body holds up. Though he’s not the player he once was, there’s hope.
Denver Nuggets (57-25): Can Russ Make a Difference?
Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray are already a strong duo, but Denver lost depth with Bruce Brown and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope gone. Enter Russell Westbrook to help the second unitโif you believe it enough times, maybe it becomes true.
Golden State Warriors (46-36): Can the Bench Replace Thompson?
Losing Klay to Dallas hurt, but new additions like De’Anthony Melton, Kyle Anderson, and Buddy Hield offer hope. With Steph Curry still playing at an elite level, counting out Golden State is risky.
Houston Rockets (41-41): Who Will Step Up?
Houston relies heavily on young talent like Amen Thompson and Cam Whitmore. If any of them exceed expectations, Houston might surprise everyone.
Fans believe in their potential more than ever!
Los Angeles Clippers (51-31): What’s the Best Outcome?
Paul George is out; Derrick Jones Jr., Kris Dunn, Kevin Porter Jr., Nic Batum, and Mo Bamba are in. The Clippers didn’t replace George with another star but added role players who might fit better togetherโthough it’s a stretch to see major improvement.
Los Angeles Lakers (47-35): What’s Next for Them?
The biggest question isn’t about Bronny James; it’s whether this roster can reach another level under new coach JJ Redick. Despite moments of brilliance from LeBron and AD, there’s doubt they can be more than just good this season.
Memphis Grizzlies (27-55): Remember How Good Ja Morant Is?
It’s been a while since Morant played or Memphis dominated the West. But with their core intact and some recent draft gems, Memphis could surprise if Morant returns to form.
Minnesota Timberwolves (56-26): Is Rob Dillingham Ready to Contribute Immediately?
Minnesota’s versatile lineup added Rob Dillingham from Kentucky. With Mike Conley aging, Dillingham will likely play significant minutes as a backup guardโpotentially giving Minnesota another young weapon.
New Orleans Pelicans (49-33): Who Is Yves Missi?
Missi is likely New Orleans’ starting center after Jonas Valanciunas left for Washington. Drafted 21st overall from Baylor, Missi will focus on defense initially but has room to grow offensivelyโa wild card for an already strong team.
Oklahoma City Thunder (57-25): Best Defense in the League?
OKC’s defense looks formidable with Alex Caruso joining an already tough backcourt alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Opponents will struggle against this defensive duo.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9sjz-60AxMM
Phoenix Suns (49-33): Is Tyus Jones Their Savior?
Phoenix needed a point guard badly; Tyus Jones might be that guy. While Devin Booker did well filling in last season, Jones’ natural playmaking skills could elevate Phoenix into serious contentionโor at least won’t hurt their chances.
Portland Trail Blazers (21-61): Ready for More Losing?
The Blazers had a rough season last year and expect more struggles ahead as they develop Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe while eyeing future stars like Cooper Flagg in the draft.
Sacramento Kings: (46โ36) – Does DeMar DeRozan Do Enough?
Sacramento didn’t overthink things this summerโthey grabbed multi-time All-Star DeMar DeRozan when they had the chance.
His consistent scoring & clutch performances make him an asset.
But can he elevate Sacramento into OKC/Denver/Minnesota tier? remains uncertain.
The NBA Western Conference seems wide open,
with seven teams having a solid case to win
the title.
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