With the new season about to begin, ESPN, as in previous years, released its strength rankings for the new season.
But to the surprise of all fans, ESPN had placed the Cavaliers at the top of the list!
1. Cavaliers
Kyrie Irving's departure and Paul George's arrival had not weakened this team, but made it stronger. George and LeBron on the wings would form the Strongest Wing Defenders in the league, while the addition of "Flash" Wade gave them an advantage over their opponents at every position!
This was probably the most stacked roster in NBA history, and they still had Shump, JR Smith, Kohlver, Tristan Thompson, Jeff Green, and others coming off the bench.
They would very likely make the new season devoid of suspense and become the biggest favorites for the championship.
2. Warriors
With four All-Stars, the Warriors' performance in the new season after building chemistry last season was highly anticipated.
Warriors Head Coach Cole revealed during the Offseason that he would use more Curry-Durant pick-and-rolls in the new season, allowing the two Superstars to create the greatest possible chemistry.
Their Offseason reinforcements had also been highly targeted. They signed Nick Young and McGee, strengthening both the perimeter and interior. They would be the team most likely to challenge the Cavaliers in the new season.
3. Pelicans
The arrivals of Butler and Walker had made the Pelicans look unprecedentedly powerful, but this was their first season together. Chemistry and cohesion would be their biggest problems, and compared to Holiday, Walker's defense would also be a major issue.
Of course, their biggest problem was still their style of play. All four were ball-dominant players. To put it in the most popular terms, one basketball was not enough for them to share. Considering Butler's prickly personality, this team would