As the Lakers approach the end of the season and the beginning of the playoffs we must analyze the road that lies ahead for the purple and gold. Which teams are going to present some problems for the defending champs? Who will truly stand in the way of this franchise’s third three-peat? Let’s take a look at the teams that could cause some problems for the Lakers and might derail this teams goal of a third straight championship.
5. Oklahoma City Thunder
Kevin Durant is one of the best players in the NBA, and the Thunder have a great nucleus of players including All-Star Russell Westbrook. The duo of Durant and Westbrook along with role players like James Harden and the newly added Kendrick Perkins create a dangerous group of young hungry players that are eager to shock the world. A well coached and defense oriented team; the Thunder were one of the tougher series for the Lakers last year, and with a year of playoff experience under their belt they look ready to be a force in the Western Conference.
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