NBA Golden State Warriors

5 Teams Golden State Warriors Don’t Want to Face in First Round of NBA Playoffs

5 Teams Golden State Warriors Don't Want to Face in First Round of NBA Playoffs

Golden State Warriors v Indiana Pacers
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The Golden State Warriors may be title contenders, but that still doesn't mean they match up well with many teams out West. Steve Kerr knows what a crapshoot the playoffs are, and his team has a couple weak areas that other squads will try and take advantage of during a long series. Here are some teams the Warriors would rather avoid in the first round.

5. The San Antonio Spurs

San Antonio Spurs v Golden State Warriors
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5. The San Antonio Spurs

San Antonio Spurs v Golden State Warriors
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The San Antonio Spurs are not a fun playoff matchup for anyone, because we are talking about the defending champions. Tony Parker's return to peak form does not bode well for their opponents, and the Warriors must avoid San Antonio at all costs.

4. The Dallas Mavericks

Rajon Rondo Dallas Mavericks
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4. The Dallas Mavericks

Rajon Rondo Dallas Mavericks
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At first thought, it seems like Golden State might want to face the Dallas Mavericks, but then you have to factor in all of the playoff experience on that team. Rajon Rondo is a player built for the postseason, and the PG should find a way out of his current slump when the bright lights are on.

3. The Memphis Grizzlies

Memphis Grizzlies v Portland Trail Blazers
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3. The Memphis Grizzlies

Memphis Grizzlies v Portland Trail Blazers
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This series will not happen in the first round, but it is still a fun intellectual exercise. The Memphis Grizzlies and Warriors are on different ends of the spectrum when it comes to personnel, and it would be fun to watch these teams go at it over seven games.

2. The Houston Rockets

James Harden Houston Rockets NBA Playoff chances
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2. The Houston Rockets

James Harden
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

This possibility is almost out of the window when it comes to the first round, but the Warriors, in the event of a long playoff run, would most likely have to play the Houston Rockets at some point. The real question is whether or not Klay Thompson can check James Harden.

1. The Oklahoma City Thunder

Russell Westbrook
Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports

1. The Oklahoma City Thunder

Russell Westbrook
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This is probably what will end up happening, and I would not complain about watching Russell Westbrook and Stephen Curry go against each other. Seven games between these two teams could be one of the highest scoring series in the history of basketball.

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