Despite making big improvements this offseason, the San Antonio Spurs are likely still keeping a close eye on their in-state rival, the Houston Rockets. The Oklahoma City Thunder remains the team to beat in the West for the foreseeable future.
However, behind them are the Rockets, who have assembled an incredibly deep and talented roster now headlined by superstar Kevin Durant. He was acquired from the Phoenix Suns and is expected to help solve the Rockets' biggest flaw, shooting, potentially transforming them into a title contender.
San Antonio nearly traded for Durant this summer but ultimately pulled back on trade talks.