NBA: Things to look forward to ahead of the upcoming 2019-20 season

The pre-season games are over and its time for the regular season to start on Tuesday. The teams have already made their moves in the off-season to sign some blockbuster deals and bring in new players to bolster their chances of success.

Here are some of the things to watch out for this season -

NBA regular season: Toronto Raptors' title defense 

With Kawhi Leonard gone, the Raptors have a huge void to fill in order to keep the title. In his first and only season, Leonard helped the Toronto side win their maiden NBA crown and was also the finals MVP. The upcoming season looks to be more challenging, but with Pascal Siakam and the experience of Pau Gasol and Kyle Lowry, the Raptors will look to fight it out to keep the title in Toronto. 

NBA regular season: Brooklyn Nets land blockbuster signings

The Nets have landed blockbuster deals ahead of the new season with Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and DeAndre Jordan set to don the jersey as they look to challenge the title. Durant won't be available for Brooklyn Nets this season as he continues his recovery from a ruptured Achilles tendon.

Also Read: NBA 2019-20: All About The Eastern Conference Sides This Season

NBA regular season: Los Angeles Clippers and Lakers fight for bragging rights  

The Clippers will have services of Kawhi Leonard from the reigning champions Toronto Raptors and Paul George from Oklahoma City Thunder. The revamped Clippers will look to upset their city rivals Lakers as Los Angeles' top team, although the LeBron James-led Lakers won't be easy to overcome after the arrival of former New Orleans Pelicans star Anthony Davis, Dwight Howard, Kyle Kuzma and newly arrived Danny Green.

Also Read: NBA 2019-20: Golden State Warriors' Profile And Season Preview

NBA regular season: Houston Rockets ready to fire 

While troubles seem to be following Houston Rockets off the court, the team has made some good signings to challenge for the title. Russell Westbrook will be reuniting with his 2018 MVP James Harden, his former Thunder teammate, who was traded to the Rockets in 2012. 

Apart from Westbrook, the team from Houston did manage to bring back key players in Danuel House, Austin Rivers and Gerald Green, in addition to signing veterans Tyson Chandler, Ryan Anderson and Thabo Sefolosha, while locking in veteran Eric Gordon with a 3-year extension worth $54 million.

Also Read: NBA 2019-20 Milwaukee Bucks Profile: Roster And Season Schedule

NBA regular season: Tough road ahead for Golden State Warriors 

With Kevin Durant gone and Klay Thompson ruled out for the first half of the season after knee surgery, the Golden State Warriors' shot at another title looks to a lot tougher. 

Also Read: Addressing Growing Fan Behavior Problem Top Priority For NBA

All eyes will be on experienced duo of Steph Curry and Draymond Green as they look to take the new team forward. The GSW, in addition, has added D’Angelo Russell to their ranks, which will boost the offense of the side big time.