Top 5 teams that might underperform in the 2021-22 NBA season

#3 Golden State Warriors

Stephen Curry (#30) and Andrew Wiggins (#22) of the Golden State Warriors

The Golden State Warriors are looking forward to an exciting 2021-22 NBA season. That's because they are expecting the return of Klay Thompson and a deep run in the 2022 playoffs. But what happens if Thompson's return does not produce the anticipated outcome?

Thompson is undoubtedly an elite talent, and can be a game-changer at both ends of the court. However, after a two-year layoff due to injury is a ridiculously long absence to expect All-Star-caliber performances from him immediately.

The Warriors have exciting young prospects, and have again employed the services of Andre Iguodala, who was pivotal in their 2015 championship run. You can't help but wonder if these additions are enough to complement Stephen Curry's scoring, though.

A conference Finals appearance is what most expect from the Warriors in the 2022 NBA playoffs, at the very least. Nevertheless, their struggles might continue, as it could take some time for Thompson to return to his pre-injury self.

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#2 LA Lakers

Carmelo Anthony (#7), Anthony Davis (#3) and LeBron James (#6) of the LA Lakers

Winning the Western Conference title and featuring in the NBA Finals is the floor for the LA Lakers this season. Their first-round exit in the 2021 playoffs was disappointing. So the front office went about restructuring the roster the best to ensure that there won't be a repeat of that result this season.

Rob Pelinka went all out and acquired two elite bucket-getters, Carmelo Anthony and Russell Westbrook, to provide the much-needed scoring option the team lacked last season. To maintain their status as the top defensively-rated team, the Lakers also acquired veteran defenders on the perimeter and in the paint.

However, the Lakers go into the 2021-22 season as the oldest team in the NBA. That is an area of concern, as they might not be able to keep up with the young athletic stars in the league.

An NBA Finals matchup between the Lakers and the Nets is expected. While LeBron James may not be ready to lose another first-round matchup, injuries might hinder his aspirations, culminating in a conference semi-finals or Finals exit.

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#1 Brooklyn Nets

Brooklyn Nets

The Brooklyn Nets, given the quality of their roster, are considered one of the favorites going into the 2021-22 NBA season.

Anything less than an appearance in the NBA Finals would be considered a a massive disappointment. Although they should reach the Finals, several factors could act as a stumbling block in realizing their ultimate goal. Injuries to their star players could be a major source of concern even though the Nets now have several scoring options.

Kyrie Irving's refusal to get vaccinated against COVID-19 is another factor that could negatively impact the Nets' next season. According to local and NBA laws, the All-Star guard could lose $15 million and not feature in any of the Brooklyn Nets' home games this season if he fails to get vaccinated before the start of the campaign.

Considering the same, the Brooklyn Nets might just fall short in their quest to win the NBA Championship next season.