The Warriors can still contend

Injuries and the salary cap might wreak havoc, but David Thorpe has a plan.

BY DAVID THORPE

Just 347 days ago, DeMarcus Cousins decided to sign with the already-stacked Warriors, and the uproar was that one team was simply too good. "I fear the ruination of my beloved NBA," said ESPN’s Mike Greenberg, echoing the thoughts of millions.

That’s all over now. First, there was Cousins, his recuperation from his Achilles tear complete by playoff time, staggering to the hardwood with a left quad tear.

Then, Kevin Durant, in the midst of a mind-blowing playoffs run, grabbing his right calf and sitting out a month.

Next up—or down—Kevon Looney getting hurled to the floor, damaging his shoulder.

And then there are these past four days: Durant tears his right Achilles in Game 5. Klay Thompson tears his ACL in his right knee in Game 6.

Game, set, match for the Warriors season and no small set of issues for their future. There is a certain path to all-time high luxury tax bills, but will it come with a lot of wins?

You have to think that, as the draft and free agency approach …