The NBA Finals is a battleground where champions are crowned, and legacies are defined. Every year, the league’s most talented teams compete in a high-stakes showdown, leaving fans in awe of the extraordinary s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁 and intensity on display. However, what if the outcome of the NBA Finals was not only a declaration of victory but also a catalyst for unexpected alliances?
Throughout the history of the NBA, we have witnessed remarkable rivalries, bitter defeats, and heroic triumphs. But what if those narratives were rewritten, and the line between conqueror and conquered blurred? What if the competitive spirit merged with a desire for ultimate success? The dynamics of the league would be forever altered, creating a tantalizing spectacle for fans and posing a myriad of questions.
Will these former rivals be able to coexist and forge a formidable alliance, or will egos clash and old wounds resurface? How would their new union impact the balance of power within the league? Would it diminish the glory of a hard-fought victory, or would it elevate the competition to unparalleled heights? These are just some of the intriguing questions that arise when contemplating the scenario of superstars joining the teams that eliminated them in the NBA Finals.
Taking inspiration from Kevin Durant’s incredible free agency decision to join the 73-9 Golden State Warriors that defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2016 Western Conference Finals, we can delve into the hypothetical scenarios that arise when dominant players unite with their former nemeses and examine how these partnerships could reshape the NBA landscape.
Here are the 13 superteams that would be created had an elite superstar joined the team that defeated him.
1986 Los Angeles Lakers
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Lakers Superteam: Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, James Worthy, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Larry Bird’s addition to the Lakers would have created an extraordinary pairing alongside Magic Johnson, forming one of the most dominant duos in NBA history. The combination of Bird’s scoring ability, basketball IQ, and versatility with Johnson’s playmaking s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s and leadership would have provided the Lakers with an unparalleled offensive force. Opposing teams would have faced immense challenges trying to defend the combined offensive firepower of Bird and Johnson.
Offensively, Bird’s scoring prowess, shooting touch, and clutch performances would have elevated the Lakers’ offensive capabilities. His ability to create his own shot, knock down perimeter jumpers, and score in various ways would have complemented Johnson’s exceptional passing and floor generalship. The combination of Bird’s scoring ability and Johnson’s playmaking s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s would have posed significant challenges for opposing defenses, creating a lethal offensive unit.
Furthermore, Bird’s exceptional basketball IQ and court vision would have seamlessly blended with the Lakers’ fast-paced, Showtime style of play. His ability to make smart decisions, find open teammates, and exploit defensive weaknesses would have amplified the Lakers’ offensive fluidity and efficiency. The combination of Bird’s basketball IQ and Johnson’s fast-break capabilities would have created an even more potent transition offense.
Most importantly, Bird’s arrival would have brought leadership, a winning mentality, and championship experience to the Lakers. His work ethic, determination, and ability to elevate the play of his teammates would have had a significant impact on the team’s overall morale and competitiveness. Bird’s presence would have provided the Lakers with a reliable veteran presence and elevated their championship aspirations with every championship during the 1980s heading to Los Angeles since Bird would retire following the 1992 season.
1992 Chicago Bulls
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Bulls Superteam: Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen
Following the 1991 NBA Finals defeat to Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls, Magic Johnson could have found a way to join forces with the league’s greatest player and team in a shocking decision. Obviously, Johnson would be forced to retire between the 1992 and 1995 seasons due to the HIV illness, but in the hypothetical scenario, that would not be the case. His addition to the Bulls would have created an unprecedented combination alongside Michael Jordan, arguably the greatest basketball player of all time. The pairing of two exceptional playmakers and winners would have given the Bulls an unstoppable backcourt duo. Opposing teams would have faced immense challenges in trying to contain the dynamic scoring and playmaking abilities of Johnson and Jordan, to no avail.
Offensively, Johnson’s exceptional court vision and passing s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s would have complemented Jordan’s scoring prowess. Johnson’s ability to orchestrate the offense and create opportunities for his teammates would have elevated the Bulls’ offensive efficiency. Magic averaged 12.5 APG in the 1991 season, so he would hover around that figure with the team. The combination of Johnson’s playmaking ability and Jordan’s scoring ability would have provided the Bulls with a lethal offensive force, making them an even more formidable team.
Furthermore, Johnson’s versatility would have added a new dimension to the Bulls’ offensive strategy. His ability to play multiple positions and contribute as a scorer, facilitator, and rebounder would have provided the team with added flexibility. Johnson’s basketball IQ and decision-making s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s would have meshed well with Phil Jackson’s triangle offense, potentially unlocking new offensive options and creating mismatches for opponents.
No doubt, Jordan would have won championships every season no matter what, but perhaps Magic’s presence would have stopped the shooting guard from retiring during the 1994 and most of the 1995 season, meaning Michael and the Bulls would have won eight straight championships without a doubt.
1994 Chicago Bulls
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Bulls Superteam: Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Charles Barkley
Charles Barkley’s addition to the Bulls would have created a formidable frontcourt alongside Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen, forming a star-studded trio. The combination of Barkley’s physicality, rebounding prowess, and scoring ability would have added a new dynamic to the Bulls’ offense. Opposing teams would have struggled to match up against the potent scoring and versatility of Barkley, Jordan, and Pippen.
Offensively, Barkley’s ability to score in the post, attack the rim, and grab offensive rebounds would have provided the Bulls with an additional scoring threat. His physical presence would have complemented Jordan’s perimeter scoring and Pippen’s all-around game. Barkley’s ability to draw double-teams would have opened up opportunities for his teammates, allowing the Bulls to exploit mismatches and maximize their offensive efficiency.
Furthermore, Barkley’s rebounding prowess would have significantly bolstered the Bulls’ frontcourt. His tenacity on the boards and knack for grabbing offensive rebounds would have provided the team with extra possessions and second-chance scoring opportunities. The combination of Barkley’s rebounding s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s and the Bulls’ fast break capabilities would have created a devastating transition offense.
Barkley was devastated that he could win league MVP and still not defeat Jordan and the Bulls, so finding a way to join up with the team that defeated him would have been simply unbelievable to watch. The superstar power forward was exceptional in the paint, and considering Jordan would not retire for the second time until the 1999 season, Barkley would have retired with six NBA titles if Jordan would not retire in the 1994 and 1995 seasons either. Even if MJ would go through his first retirement phase, Barkley would retire with four NBA titles.
1996 Houston Rockets
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Rockets Superteam: Clyde Drexler, Hakeem Olajuwon, Shaquille O’Neal
Shaquille O’Neal was outplayed by Hakeem Olajuwon of the Houston Rockets in the 1995 NBA Finals. O’Neal’s addition to the Rockets would have provided them with a formidable frontcourt presence and significantly altered their playing style. At the time, the Rockets had a strong perimeter-oriented team led by Hakeem Olajuwon, Clyde Drexler, and a solid supporting cast. O’Neal’s arrival would have introduced a new dynamic, as he possessed an unmatched combination of size, strength, and athleticism.
Offensively, O’Neal’s presence would have given the Rockets a dominant force in the paint. His ability to command double teams and draw attention from defenders would have created ample opportunities for his teammates. Olajuwon, an elite post player himself, could have benefited from O’Neal’s presence, forming a formidable frontcourt duo capable of overpowering opposing defenses. Of course, Olajuwon was always a capable mid-range shooter who could score efficiently from the perimeter as required.
In other words, O’Neal’s scoring ability, particularly in the low post, would have provided the Rockets with an additional offensive weapon. His powerful inside scoring and ability to finish at the rim would have complemented the Rockets’ perimeter-oriented game. The team’s shooters, such as Drexler and Sam Cassell, would have had more space and open looks due to O’Neal’s gravity in the paint.
Defensively, the combination of O’Neal and Olajuwon would have formed one of the most imposing frontcourt duos in NBA history. O’Neal’s shot-blocking ability and rebounding prowess, coupled with Olajuwon’s defensive s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s, would have created a nearly impenetrable wall for opponents. The Rockets would have become an elite defensive team, capable of disrupting opponents’ offenses and controlling the boards.
The Rockets went back-to-back in 1994 and 1995, but they absolutely would have continued to dominate the next two seasons afterward. Olajuwon was only 33 years old in the 1996 season, which would have meant he had another two seasons at an All-Star level before his decline would start. That would have meant the Rockets would have won four straight championships between 1994 and 1997.
1998 Chicago Bulls
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Bulls Superteam: John Stockton, Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Karl Malone, Dennis Rodman
Karl Malone and John Stockton’s addition to the Chicago Bulls would have created an incredibly talented trio alongside Michael Jordan. The combination of Malone’s scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and physicality, along with Stockton’s elite playmaking and basketball IQ, would have provided the Bulls with an unparalleled offensive force. Opposing teams would have faced immense challenges trying to defend the combined offensive firepower and basketball IQ of this star-studded trio.
Offensively, Malone’s scoring ability in the low post, mid-range, and on the glass would have greatly elevated the Bulls’ offensive capabilities. His physicality and ability to draw fouls would have provided an additional scoring threat and opened up opportunities for his teammates. Stockton’s exceptional passing s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s and court vision would have perfectly complemented the scoring prowess of Jordan and Malone. The trio’s ability to score in various ways and create opportunities for each other would have created a dynamic and unstoppable offensive unit.
Stockton’s leadership and ability to orchestrate the offense would have been an ideal fit for the Bulls. His precision passing, ability to control the tempo, and knack for finding open teammates would have amplified the Bulls’ offensive efficiency. Stockton’s presence would have facilitated seamless ball movement, enhanced player spacing, and maximized the talents of his teammates.
The Bulls would win their final championship in 1998, but even with the departure of Phil Jackson as head coach, any coach with a reasonable voice in the locker room could lead a superteam with Jordan, Malone, Stockton, Pippen, and Rodman to championships in 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2003. Considering Jordan retires after the 2003 season no matter what, the GOAT ends up with five more NBA titles taking his tally to 11 to tie Bill Russell.
The duo of Malone and Stockton would never win a title, even if the former would go on to shortcut his way in 2004 with the Los Angeles Lakers. Overall, if Malone and Stockton join arguably the greatest team ever, there is nothing stopping them from winning five straight championships before retirements kick in.
2002 Los Angeles Lakers
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Lakers Superteam: Allen Iverson, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal
The Answer’s addition to the Los Angeles Lakers would have created a dynamic backcourt duo alongside Kobe Bryant, another exceptional scoring guard. The pairing of two explosive and high-scoring guards would have given the Lakers an unparalleled offensive firepower. Opposing defenses would have faced tremendous challenges trying to contain the combined scoring abilities of Iverson and Bryant. Of course, the dominant Shaquille O’Neal would have another guard to trust while he goes about his dominating business.
Offensively, Iverson’s scoring ability, speed, and dribbling s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s would have added a new dimension to the Lakers’ attack. His quickness and agility would have made him a difficult matchup for opposing guards, creating opportunities for himself and his teammates. Iverson’s ability to create his own shot and penetrate defenses would have provided the Lakers with an additional scoring threat.
Furthermore, Iverson’s offensive prowess would have complemented Bryant and O’Neal’s game. The combination of their scoring abilities and playmaking s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s would have formed a dynamic backcourt that opponents would have struggled to defend. Iverson’s ability to handle the ball and initiate the offense would have alleviated some of the playmaking burden from Bryant, allowing him to focus more on scoring and attacking from different angles. That also meant O’Neal dealing with the “Hack-a-Shaq” would not be as critical as it was at times because Iverson would take over.
There would be potential challenges and considerations associated with Iverson joining the Lakers. One significant aspect would be the adjustment of team dynamics and the potential clash of playing styles. The Lakers’ success during that era revolved around Bryant’s leadership and the triangle offense under the guidance of coach Phil Jackson. Incorporating Iverson, a player who thrived in a more isolation-heavy system, would require finding a balance between individual brilliance and maximizing team success.
However, the stars would find a way to make it work because the Lakers would have won the 2002, 2003, and 2004 championships with possibly Shaq remaining in Los Angeles for the long term. In other words, Bryant and Shaq would have won two more titles together, and the GOAT debate with Michael Jordan would have been far more interesting.
2005 Detroit Pistons
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Pistons Superteam: Chauncey Billups, Richard Hamilton, Tayshaun Prince, Ben Wallace, Shaquille O’Neal
Shaquille O’Neal’s addition to the Pistons would have brought a significant shift in their playing style and offensive approach. Known for his imposing size, strength, and dominance in the paint, O’Neal would have provided a formidable low-post offensive presence that the Pistons lacked during their championship run. His ability to command double teams and draw attention from defenders would have created more space for his teammates, improving the team’s scoring efficiency.
On the offensive end, O’Neal’s powerful inside scoring and ability to finish at the rim would have complemented the Pistons’ perimeter-oriented style. The team’s primary offensive options, such as Chauncey Billups, Richard Hamilton, and Tayshaun Prince, would have benefited from O’Neal’s presence, as his gravity would have attracted defenders, opening up opportunities for open shots and driving lanes.
Moreover, O’Neal’s rebounding prowess would have significantly bolstered the Pistons’ frontcourt. His ability to control the boards and generate second-chance opportunities would have provided the team with extra possessions and limited opponents’ offensive rebounds. O’Neal’s rebounding prowess, combined with the Pistons’ already strong defensive mindset, would have formed a formidable defensive unit. Can one imagine handling Shaquille O’Neal (11.5 RPG in 2004) and Ben Wallace (12.4 RPG in 2004) in the paint when it comes to rebounding?
Defensively, O’Neal’s shot-blocking ability (2.5 BPG) and interior presence would have fortified the Pistons’ already-stout defense alongside Wallace (3.0 BPG). O’Neal’s defensive acumen, coupled with the Pistons’ disciplined team defense, could have solidified their status as arguably the league’s best defensive units of all time.
The team’s previous success relied on perimeter-oriented players and a more motion-based offense. Integrating O’Neal into their system would require adjustments in terms of playcalling and offensive sets, ensuring that the team maximizes his strengths while maintaining their established style of play.
With O’Neal in the paint and the likes of Billups (38.8% 3-PT FG) and Hamilton (45.5% FG) receiving the ball from the big man’s double teams, the Pistons would have been one of the best offensive teams of all time instead of being a defensive-minded team.
2007 Miami Heat
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Heat Superteam: Dwyane Wade, Dirk Nowitzki, Shaquille O’Neal
In the hypothetical scenario of Dirk Nowitzki, the versatile power forward, joining the Miami Heat after their defeat in the 2006 NBA Finals, several intriguing possibilities emerge. Nowitzki’s addition to the Miami Heat would have created a formidable frontcourt duo alongside Shaquille O’Neal.
The pairing of two dominant big men would have given the Heat a unique combination of inside scoring and perimeter shooting. Nowitzki’s ability to stretch the floor with his exceptional three-point shooting and O’Neal’s dominance in the paint would have posed significant challenges for opposing defenses.
Offensively, Nowitzki’s scoring versatility would have provided a new dimension to the Heat’s attack. His ability to create his own shot, post up smaller defenders, and knock down perimeter jumpers would have complemented O’Neal’s presence in the low post. This inside-outside threat would have opened up driving lanes for Dwyane Wade and other guards, creating a more balanced and potent offensive system.
Furthermore, Nowitzki’s shooting ability would have significantly improved the Heat’s spacing and perimeter shooting. His presence on the floor would have forced opposing defenses to extend out to the three-point line, creating more room for O’Neal to operate in the post and enabling Wade to penetrate and kick out to open shooters. Nowitzki’s shooting prowess would have made the Heat’s offense even more difficult to defend.
The Heat amazingly won the 2006 Finals in six games after falling 0-2, and with Wade making 10 straight All-Star Teams in a row afterward and O’Neal lasting in Miami for another year and a half, the core would have won at least two more titles. In fact, Wade and Nowitzki would have continued dominating the league even after O’Neal would age and depart. At the bare minimum, the Heat win the 2007 and 2008 titles, with possibly another handful of championships on the way as well.
2008 San Antonio Spurs
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Spurs Superteam: Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili, LeBron James, Tim Duncan
In the hypothetical scenario of LeBron James, one of the greatest basketball players of all time, joining the San Antonio Spurs after their defeat in the 2008 NBA Finals, it would have been over𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁 for the league. James’ addition to the Spurs would have created a super-team combination alongside Tim Duncan, one of the most dominant power forwards in NBA history. The pairing of two versatile and dominant forwards would have given the Spurs an unprecedented frontcourt duo. Opposing teams would have struggled to find an answer for the combination of James’ athleticism and playmaking ability and Duncan’s s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁 set in the low post.
Offensively, James’ ability to create for himself and his teammates would have been a perfect fit within the Spurs’ offensive system, known for its precision and ball movement. His exceptional passing s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s and basketball IQ would have seamlessly blended with the Spurs’ culture of unselfish play. The combination of James’ playmaking ability and Duncan’s scoring prowess would have provided the Spurs with a devastating offensive force.
Furthermore, James’ versatility would have added a new dimension to the Spurs’ offensive strategy. His ability to play multiple positions and excel in different roles would have given the team flexibility and allowed for strategic adjustments. James’ scoring ability, combined with his exceptional court vision, would have made the Spurs’ offense even more difficult to defend.
Defensively, James’ athleticism and defensive versatility would have greatly benefited the Spurs. His ability to guard multiple positions and provide weak-side help defense would have bolstered the team’s already formidable defense. The combination of James’ defensive prowess and Duncan’s shot-blocking presence would have created a daunting challenge for opponents’ offenses. The Spurs would win a total of five NBA titles in the Tim Duncan and Gregg Popovich era, but with LeBron James, that number would have jumped to eight or possibly 10. No doubt, James, with the Spurs core, would have captured the 2008 championship and many more after.
2009 Boston Celtics
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Celtics Superteam: Rajon Rondo, Ray Allen, Kobe Bryant, Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett
Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers’ loss to the Boston Celtics superteam in the 2008 NBA finals was devastating because the shooting guard was desperately looking for a way to add more championships to his resume. Had he joined the Celtics instead of defeating them two years later, Bryant would have had more championships than five, without a doubt.
Bryant’s addition to the Celtics would have created an extraordinary pairing alongside Paul Pierce, forming a formidable offensive duo. The combination of Bryant’s scoring ability, tenacity, and competitive drive with Pierce’s versatility and clutch performances would have given the Celtics an unparalleled offensive force. Opposing teams would have faced immense challenges trying to defend the combined offensive firepower of Bryant and Pierce.
Offensively, Bryant’s scoring prowess, ability to create his own shot, and clutch performances would have elevated the Celtics’ offensive capabilities. His scoring ability from all areas of the court and relentless work ethic would have complemented Pierce’s scoring versatility and ability to create mismatches. The combination of Bryant’s scoring ability and Pierce’s offensive s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s would have posed significant challenges for opposing defenses, creating a dynamic and potent offensive unit. Defensively, Bryant could take on an even bigger role and create arguably the best little-big defensive duo alongside The Big Ticket, Kevin Garnett.
Rajon Rondo would also probably lead the league in assists every season, with Bryant, Pierce, Allen, and Garnett receiving the ball. There is no way this superteam would not win every championship until the 2013-14 season when Pierce, Garnett, and Allen all started to heavily decline at ages 35 and over. Bryant would have more titles than Michael Jordan, and it would be very interesting to witness that.
2017 Cleveland Cavaliers
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Cavaliers Superteam: Stephen Curry, Kyrie Irving, LeBron James, Kevin Love
No doubt, Stephen Curry’s addition to the Cavaliers would have created a dynamic backcourt duo alongside Kyrie Irving. The pairing of two elite ball handlers and long-range shooters would have given the Cavaliers an unprecedented shooting and playmaking combination. Opposing defenses would have been forced to stretch out to the perimeter, opening up driving lanes for LeBron James and providing additional space for post players like Kevin Love.
Offensively, Curry’s ability to create his own shot and shoot from deep range would have added another dimension to the Cavaliers’ attack. His deadly three-point shooting and off-ball movement would have complemented Irving’s scoring ability and James’ playmaking s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s. The combination of Curry’s shooting prowess and Irving’s dribble penetration would have posed significant challenges for opposing defenses, requiring constant attention and leaving little room for defensive help.
Furthermore, Curry’s exceptional shooting range would have stretched the floor for the Cavaliers, creating more room for James to operate in the post and facilitating better spacing for the team’s shooters. His ability to pull up from anywhere beyond the arc would have forced opponents to defend him closely, creating opportunities for his teammates to exploit gaps in the defense. During the 2016 season, Curry averaged 30.1 PPG on 50.4% FG, 45.4% 3-PT FG, and 90.8% FT, which arguably constituted the point guard’s greatest season ever.
The Cavaliers would only win one title with the core of James, Irving, and Love, but that was because Kevin Durant went and joined the 73-9 Golden State Warriors team, and the Cavaliers had no shot. With Curry joining the Cavaliers instead, LeBron James would have had at least six championships if Irving would end up leaving anyways in the 2018 season to start his own team. Even if Irving would leave, James, Curry, and Love would be good enough to win another few championships as well. Overall, if Curry joined up with LeBron, The King would have likely surpassed Michael Jordan in total championships.
2018 Golden State Warriors
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Warriors Superteam: Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Kevin Durant, LeBron James, Draymond Green
The Golden State Warriors superteam was the biggest factor in the way of LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers year after year, with The King holding a poor 7-15 record against the franchise. Even if James did win a title at the expense of the Warriors in 2016, he would lose a total of three Finals appearances against them.
If LeBron would follow Kevin Durant’s footsteps and join the Warriors, his addition to the Warriors, who were already a dominant team, would have created an unprecedented super-team with an overwhelming amount of talent. The combination of James’ versatility, basketball IQ, and playmaking ability with the Warriors’ existing core of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green would have created an unrivaled force in the NBA. Opposing teams would have faced an immense challenge trying to defend the collective offensive firepower and basketball IQ of this super-team.
Offensively, James’ scoring ability, playmaking s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s, and basketball IQ would have elevated the Warriors’ offensive capabilities to new heights. His ability to attack the rim, finish at the basket, and draw defenders would have created open looks for his teammates. The combination of James’ scoring ability and his playmaking s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s, alongside Curry’s shooting, Thompson’s off-ball movement, and Green’s versatility, would have presented a devastating offensive juggernaut that would have been difficult to stop.
Instead of settling with a poor Finals record, James would have remained in Golden State to give him far more championships than Michael Jordan and possibly boost him in the GOAT debate. Even if Kevin Durant left Golden State following the 2019 season, James, Curry, Klay, and Draymond would be good enough to dominate every season until 2023, meaning James would have won at least four more championships.
2023 Golden State Warriors
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Warriors Superteam: Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Jayson Tatum, Draymond Green
The Golden State Warriors were clearly favored in the 2022 NBA Finals because the young Boston Celtics, led by two young stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown were inexperienced and underprepared against the veteran side led by Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green. Obviously, Steve Kerr was the head of the snake, and the continuity he brought to the team was simply sensational.
Instead of running it back with the Boston Celtics, what would have happened if Jayson Tatum joined the Warriors the following season? Tatum would go on to average a career-high 30.1 PPG, 8.8 RPG, and 4.6 APG in the 2022-23 season, so clearly he elevated his game. Providing the Warriors with this type of scoring and all-around ability meant the lineup would have featured Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Jayson Tatum, and Draymond Green as the core. Considering Golden State lost in the second round of the playoffs in 2023, they would have made it further.
Tatum’s scoring would mean the Warriors have a second coming of the Kevin Durant-led Warriors in 2017 and 2018, except this team won’t be quite as good.
Regardless, Tatum would have made the Warriors supremely dominant, and they would have had the edge over the realistic champion Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference. Had this Warriors team faced the Miami Heat only led by Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo in 2023, it would have been a sweep. No team in the NBA could compare to Golden State’s elite superstar core, and that would have been amazing to watch.
