Why the Golden State Warriors WILL Win the NBA Championship
Over their last 10 games, the Golden State Warriors have gone 8–2, which is second in the entire NBA. While they’ve faced their fair share of struggles throughout the season, getting as low as 19–24. It seems like they’ve finally found their groove.
The week before the all-star break is crucial as it dictates how the rest of a team’s seasons may go. Some get lackadaisical and fall the standings, while others stay serious and climb the rankings. For the case of the Warriors, they represent the latter and now have a record of 27–26, which is above .500.
With this recent stretch of play, I’m reminded of the same team back in 2022 when the Warriors won their last championship. This time, however, the team only has more talent, which is why I believe they will add their fifth ring to the dynasty this year.
The Chef is Cooking Again
Ever since not being named an all-star starter, the Warriors’ superstar Stephen Curry has been playing out of his mind. Over the last 8 games, he has averaged 31.5 points, 5.1 assists, and 4.6 rebounds. Even more, he’s doing this on a ridiculous 50.3–46.9–84.0 (FG%-3P%-FT%) shooting efficiency.
To put this into perspective, the average NBA player only averages around 47–37–78 efficiency. Curry is significantly outperforming this while putting up almost double the amount of shots and three-pointers that the average player shoots.
If he can continue to play this way for the rest of the season, there’s no telling how far the Golden State Warriors can go.
Jonathan Kuminga’s Rise to Stardom
Another key factor and contributor to the Golden State Warriors’ recent success has been their budding star, Jonathan Kuminga. Standing at a robust 6'7 and 225 pounds, Kuminga is one of the highest jumpers in the league. Combining his lethal inside scoring ability, with his dominant mid-range game made him worthy of being drafted 7th overall by the Warriors in 2021.
However, since being drafted Kuminga has been off to a slow start, but now we’re finally seeing him fulfill his true potential. Over the last 16 games, Kuminga is averaging an astounding 21.6 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 2.7 assists.
The main problem for the Warriors' downfalls the seasons before was their overreliance on Stephen Curry. But with Kuminga’s growth, it seems like that problem is finally fixed.
Draymond Bringing the Defense
There’s no denying Draymond Green’s importance to the Golden State Warriors. His accolades alone should underline this, as he’s won a Defensive Player of the Year, been a four-time all-star, made the all-NBA team twice, and even been named to the NBA All-Defensive Team franchise record eight times
This season, Draymond has been a special case, as he’s struggled to stay on the floor due to his constant suspensions and foul play. This impact has been felt by the team as without him they’ve managed to have a defensive rating of 122.3, which is last in the entire league. However, with Draymond on the floor, the Warriors’ defensive rating notably improves to 114.2, which ranks in the top 10 of teams around the league.
As many say, defense wins championships, and Draymond brings the defense for the Warriors.
Looking ahead to the future, the Golden State Warriors are in a prime position to put themselves as one of the top-seeded teams in the Western Conference. Among teams, they have the 6th easiest remaining record when it comes to strength of schedule. Meanwhile teams like the Phoenix Suns, LA Clippers, Sacramento Kings, LA Lakers, and New Orleans Pelicans, all rank in the top half, with some of the hardest schedules remaining.
Considering their history of winning and their ability to improve their play when doubted, don’t be surprised if the Larry O’Brien trophy ends up in the Bay.
This is why I believe the Golden State Warriors WILL win the NBA championship. Do you agree? Who do you think will take home a ring this season? Let me know your takes and any shocking predictions you may have in the comments.
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