Jazz/Clippers vs. Warriors
The Jazz and Clippers are in the midst of combat, as their series is deadlocked at two games apiece. Both teams are facing their own bout of adversity - the Clippers lost Blake Griffin to a toe injury and the Jazz were without Rudy Gobert for two games and then didn't have Gordon Hayward for the second half of Game 4 as he was doubled over with food poisoning. This all got me to thinking: If the Jazz and Clippers were both at full strength and combined to form a super team, could they dethrone Golden State?
Let's map this out. Their starting five would be Chris Paul at the point, JJ Redick at the two, Gordon Hayward at the three, Blake Griffin at the four, and let's say Rudy Gobert at the five. Then, off of the bench they would have DeAndre Jordan to give Rudy a blow, Joe Johnson and Rodney Hood for instant offense, and Derrick Favors as a solid backup big. How would this hypothetical team fare against the NBA's best in Golden State?
Honestly, I think they would still lose. That is how good the Warriors are. Even a team comprised of essentially All-Stars - current, present, and future - would not be able to upend the team from the Bay. Admittedly, it would be fascinating to see this game played, but ultimately the Warriors would still come out on top.
It is going to take some effort to beat the Warriors this postseason. There is really only one team, led by one man, who can do it. LeBron and the Cavs will be there, if they can somehow manage to come out on top two years in a row, LeBron will be seated at the same table as Michael once and for all. There will be no more debate, no more controversy. LeBron James will be the G.O.A.T.
