In the breathless early weeks of the NBA season, the Golden State Warriors appear determined to rewrite the script from their previous campaign. With a current record of 4-1, the Warriors are setting a high standard, a far cry from the disappointments that marred their last season. After an optimistic 5-1 start a year ago, the Warriors quickly spiraled, dropping seven of their next eight games and ultimately bowing out early in the Play-In Tournament. This season, the team seems intent on avoiding such pitfalls, driven by a staunch defense and an aggressive attack from the arc.
A Historic Start
Kickstarting the season with a bang, Golden State showcased its offensive prowess by dismantling the Portland Trail Blazers and Utah Jazz, winning with a combined margin of 77 points—a new NBA record. Although they stumbled against the Los Angeles Clippers, where star player Stephen Curry was sidelined with a peroneal strain in his left ankle, the Warriors have shown a commendable ability to regroup and refocus.
Curry’s absence was keenly felt against the Clippers, but the Warriors quickly shook off the cobwebs to claim two consecutive victories against the New Orleans Pelicans. Notably, the Pelicans were missing several key players, including Dejounte Murray and CJ McCollum, which may have softened the challenge for Steve Kerr’s squad. Nevertheless, the Warriors will gladly pocket those wins as they continue to build momentum.
Defensive Resurgence
Central to the Warriors’ early success has been their rejuvenated defense, entering Friday's play with a defensive rating under 100.0. This defensive intensity has invigorated Draymond Green, who has expressed a renewed desire to return to the Defensive Player of the Year discussions. "Draymond Green has apparently been inspired by the team's defensive prowess, expressing to Tim Kawakami his desire to return to relevancy in the Defensive Player of the Year discussions." Green’s leadership and defensive acumen are proving invaluable as the Warriors strive to fortify their position in the upper echelons of the league standings.
Offensive Firepower
On the offensive front, the Warriors continue to blaze trails, leading the league in assists and ranking second in made 3-pointers per game with an average of 17.6. This dynamic offensive style keeps opponents guessing and has become a hallmark of the Warriors' play under Kerr’s guidance. Buddy Hield’s fine form, averaging over 21 points per game and shooting 50% from beyond the arc, adds yet another weapon to Golden State’s already formidable offensive arsenal.
Challenging Road Ahead
Looking at the road ahead, the Warriors face a formidable set of challenges with upcoming games against Houston, Cleveland, Boston, and Oklahoma City—all teams in strong early-season form with a combined record of 13-1. Upon returning to the comforts of home court, the Warriors are set to face the Dallas Mavericks and Memphis Grizzlies, teams that are no pushovers themselves.
The coming weeks will be an acid test for Golden State, with these road games serving as a barometer for their true capabilities. The ghosts of last season’s collapse loom large, a cautionary tale of how quickly fortunes can change. Yet, if Green’s inspired defense and the team’s unparalleled ball movement can be maintained, the Warriors are poised to fend off any repeat of past missteps.
A Season with Promise
Despite the challenges, the Warriors’ current trajectory offers a tantalizing glimpse of their potential. The blend of veteran leadership, typified by Green and Curry, alongside the spark of young talent and strategic adjustments, positions Golden State as a serious contender in the Western Conference. While the NBA season remains young, the Warriors are clearly articulating their intentions to remain at the forefront of the league's narrative. As they embark on this challenging road trip, much will be revealed about their resilience and readiness to claim their place among the NBA's elite once again.