Winning Combinations: 3 pairings that will decide the Western Conference

The Western Conference is headlined by three fearsome duos that will be a burdensome defensive matchup for any opponent.

With the threat of two opposing superstars, the Golden State Warriors, Oklahoma City Thunder, and San Antonio Spurs are poised to make lengthy playoff runs on the back of their All-Star tandems.

Here are the three pairings that will decide the Western Conference:

Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson

The best backcourt in the NBA continued its 3-point assault on opponents during a record-setting season. Curry smashed his own single-season mark with 402 made 3-pointers, while Thompson added 276 of his own, en route to becoming the first teammates to reach 600 in a single season. They can score at will and seemingly from anywhere on the court. They're also the reigning NBA champions and own the regular-season record for most wins in a season.

Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook

If there's a duo that can rival the offense in Oakland, it's Durant and Westbrook. Both players finally enjoyed healthy seasons and the on-court results were dominating. Durant was the first player since Michael Jordan in 1988-89 to average 28 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. Not to be outdone, Westbrook finished with a league-leading 18 triple-doubles and was the first player in 50 years to average 23.5 points, 10.4 assists, and 7.8 rebounds.

Kawhi Leonard and LaMarcus Aldridge

The Spurs committed big money to Leonard and Aldridge and the future in the Alamo City looks bright following a strong first season together. Both give head coach Gregg Popovich true go-to scorers while also being responsible two-way players. In addition to averaging almost 40 points and 15 rebounds a game, the duo helped the Spurs establish one of the best three defenses in the last eight years based on defensive rating.

Related: Winning Combinations: 3 pairings that will decide the Eastern Conference