The Golden State Warriors have burst out of the gate in the 2023 NBA season with a strong 4-1 record. This early success echoes their performance last season when they started 5-1, a promising record that unfortunately did not translate into long-term success. The Warriors' initial surge was followed by a dramatic slump, as they lost seven out of the next eight games, eventually leading to an early exit from the Play-In Tournament. This historical context adds a layer of suspense to their current promising start, as fans and analysts alike wonder if the team can sustain its momentum this year.
A significant highlight of the Warriors’ early campaign includes dominant victories over the Portland Trail Blazers and Utah Jazz. These wins were monumental, not only for the points they secured but also for the way they were achieved; their combined 77-point margin in these matchups set a new NBA record. However, their streak was briefly interrupted by a loss to the Los Angeles Clippers, during which star player Stephen Curry left the game with a peroneal strain in his left ankle, raising concerns over his availability for future matches.
In response to their setback against the Clippers, the Warriors quickly regrouped, securing back-to-back wins at home against the New Orleans Pelicans. It's important to note that the Pelicans were operating at a disadvantage, missing several key players including Dejounte Murray, CJ McCollum, Trey Murphy III, and Herb Jones in the second matchup. Still, the Warriors showcased their depth and resilience in these victories, demonstrating that they can capitalize on opportunities presented by undermanned opponents.
The team's successes have been fueled by more than just scoring margins. The Warriors entered Friday's play with a sterling defensive rating under 100.0, testament to their dedication on the less glamorous end of the court. This defensive tenacity has sparked ambition in familiar faces. Draymond Green, one of the team’s defensive stalwarts, expressed his rekindled motivation in discussions with Tim Kawakami, revealing his aspirations to return to the shortlist for Defensive Player of the Year honors. "Draymond Green has apparently been inspired by the team's defensive prowess," noted Kawakami, underscoring Green’s determination to anchor Golden State’s defense.
Offensively, the Warriors continue to excel in ball movement, leading the league in assists and ranking second with an impressive average of 17.6 made three-pointers per game. Sharpshooter Buddy Hield has been a significant contributor, averaging over 21 points per game and converting 50% of his nearly 10 three-point attempts, further bolstering the team’s offensive capabilities.
The Warriors now face a challenging stretch of games on the road against opponents with formidable records. Their next engagements feature matchups against Houston, Cleveland, Boston, and Oklahoma City, whose combined record stands at 13-1, posing a formidable test for Golden State. Upon returning to the Chase Center, they will face tough assignments against the Dallas Mavericks and Memphis Grizzlies.
This upcoming gauntlet presents the Warriors with an opportunity to affirm their standing as a serious contender this season. Their recent experiences serve as a vivid reminder of how quickly fortunes can shift in the NBA. Maintaining their current trajectory against skilled teams will not only boost their confidence but could also solidify their position as early season favorites in the West. As the Warriors prepare for these tests, fans and the management alike will undoubtedly keep a wary eye on the influences that injury and consistency might have on their fortunes, days after a promising but ultimately disappointing start last season.