The Golden State Warriors have been one of the most unpredictable teams this year. Before the season started, there were no high expectations for the franchise.
Apart from Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, there was no other player the team could rely on. Andrew Wiggins was still seeking for a breakout year, Klay Thompson’s return was uncertain and nonody knew when and in what condition he would return.
The roster head coach Steve Kerr had created was just promising and nothing more. However, no one saw what was coming.
With Curry charging from Day 1 and Jordan Poole playing on equal grounds with Klay, the Warriors had 4 wins in a row and 24-6 on the first 30 games.
Curry was immediately set as an MVP contender, Wiggins was making the difference on both ends and Poole was the team’s revelation. As a result, Golden State quickly set sail for the top along with the Phoenix Suns.
Curry broke Ray Allen’s record for most made three-pointers and the potential return of Thompson in a good shape and the reunion of the Splash Brothers terrified the opponents.
But, it was not exactly that. Klay’s return, as it was logical, spoiled the chemistry of the team. Poole had to share time with Thompson and that was not the best for him, as he lost his form and momentum.
Meanwhile, Green went on the pits on January 9 and, since then, Golden State went nowhere near the early season games.
Photo: Craig Mitchelldyer/Associated Press
Till Tuesday’s game against the Clippers, they were on a five-game losing streak, which placed them third on the West with a 44-22 record.
During this five-game skid, they allowed 122.6 points per game, but this changed on Tuesday. Golden State relied on its defense, conceded just 97 points and cruised to the win.
This win against the Clippers may have woken the Warriors up. Should they win the Nuggets and avoid the sweep (Denver leads season series 3-0) and with Draymond Green’s scheduled return on March 14, things can only get better.
The recent losses did no actual harm to the three-time NBA champions since they are well placed already. However, the Warriors will attempt to build a winning streak to clinch the home-court advantage in the playoffs.
The time they have till the postseason can be used to their benefit. After the Nuggets, they have 5 straight home games that can be used for the team to gain momentum.
Should Curry and Klay play to their standards, Poole and Wiggins play according to their talent and Draymond return to the lineup in good shape, who could bet against the Warriors?
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