Even though the Warriors are going to curb-stomp everyone, developments outside the Bay still matter. The growth of one player, or one unexpected boom-or-bust trade, can bend the trajectory of an entire franchise.
With that in mind, here's our annual spotlight on six of the most intriguing players to watch in the upcoming season. We avoid superstars and obvious first- and second-year curiosities. The goal is to find guys in new roles, facing new challenges, who might emerge as X factors for solid teams.
RODNEY HOOD, UTAH JAZZ
The moment Gordon Hayward hit "publish," Hood became the go-to scorer for this defense-first meat-grinder that figures to be in the race for one of the West's last three playoff spots.