2019 NBA Playoffs: Playing contender or pretender

BOSTON, MA - FEBRUARY 03: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Boston Celtics dribbles while guarded by Russell Westbrook #0 of the Oklahoma City Thunder r during a game at TD Garden on February 3, 2019 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) /

2 of 11

(Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

Golden State Warriors

Every season, it seems as though the general NBA public does its best to justify a scenario in which the Golden State Warriors aren’t hoisting the Larry O’Brien trophy come June, and this year is no different.

Their effort at the defensive end of the court continues to come and go as it pleases, while some believe the impending free agency of Kevin Durant has created unescapable tension within the locker room, as evidenced by the on-court incident involving KD and Draymond Green back in November.

Golden State loses a single game during the regular season, and it feels as though the sky is falling on its chance for a three-peat. In reality, the drag of a relatively meaningless 82 games is what makes them appear mortal. The Dubs don’t play for October through April. They’re thinking about May and June, which will lead to a lack of urgency during the former time period that may lend itself to a perceived vulnerability.

Make no mistake about it though: This team is still incredibly dangerous at both ends of the floor, with ridiculous offensive firepower and a stifling defense when the energy is cranked all the way to 100 percent.

The Warriors added DeMarcus Cousins over the summer and brought in Andrew Bogut in early March. They can throw out a number of different lineup combinations with which to utterly dominate the opposition, and baring some unforeseen injury or a massive internal implosion, the 2019 title is still Golden State’s to lose.