Golden State Warriors Preseason Success: A Sign of Things to Come?

The Golden State Warriors are making headlines with their perfect preseason record, winning five consecutive games, including victories over strong teams like the Sacramento Kings, Detroit Pistons, and the Los Angeles Lakers. While it may just be preseason, this undefeated run showcases more than just early dominance—it signals a new level of motivation and chemistry within the team that could bode well for their upcoming NBA season.

A New Level of Motivation and Chemistry

Despite it being the preseason, the Warriors have displayed an intensity that feels more like the playoffs. Their ball movement, team chemistry, and defensive effort have all been impressive, especially considering they’re integrating several new players into the lineup. Watching the Warriors play, it’s clear they are committed to entering the season with a fresh outlook. This energy is evident in the way they handle both ends of the floor, particularly through their crisp passing and fluid offense.

One play in particular demonstrates their newfound cohesion: Trace Jackson-Davis receives the ball at the top of the key, and Draymond Green sets a screen to redirect the defenders’ attention. Jackson-Davis then sets another screen for Steph Curry, who capitalizes on the space created. This seamless coordination exemplifies the Warriors’ chemistry, showing that even new additions are quickly finding their roles.

Balanced Contributions Across the Roster

In their recent win over the Lakers, the Warriors proved they can win even when Curry and Buddy Hield struggle from beyond the arc. Despite Curry and Hield going a combined 10 of 31 from the field and 5 of 20 from three-point range, Golden State still emerged victorious. This outcome underlines the depth of their roster, as others stepped up to contribute significantly. Jonathan Kuminga, for example, played a standout first quarter, showcasing his improved jump shot and remarkable speed. On one play, he took advantage of Anthony Davis’s close defense to drive past him and finish at the rim, a testament to his growth and increased confidence.

Kuminga has become a more versatile offensive threat, now equipped with a reliable mid-range shot that forces defenders to play him tighter. This, in turn, opens up his ability to drive past them, using his speed and agility to score or create for others. It’s a promising development for the young forward, who could become an even more valuable piece of the Warriors’ puzzle this season.

Embracing the Three-Point Game

If there’s one clear theme emerging from the Warriors’ preseason play, it’s their commitment to the three-point shot. Golden State has been shooting threes relentlessly, a strategy that has not only paid dividends in terms of scoring but also in opening up the floor. By stretching defenses out to the perimeter, players like Kuminga, Gary Payton II, and Moses Moody have more space to drive and score inside. This approach also allows for efficient interior scoring from cutters and off-ball movers who can exploit the defense’s focus on the three-point line.

The Warriors’ reliance on the three-point shot also allows Curry to attract double-teams, leaving the paint open for other players to attack. In one play, Curry’s movement off the ball draws two defenders, leaving Draymond Green with a wide-open lane to the basket. This focus on perimeter shooting is a classic Warriors strategy, but with their depth and versatile shooting roster, it’s more potent than ever.

Young Players Stepping Up: Moses Moody and Trace Jackson-Davis

Among the Warriors’ young players, Moses Moody has shown remarkable growth as a scorer. Unlike last season, Moody now plays with a level of aggressiveness that’s catching the eye. He no longer hesitates to take shots and is comfortable making decisions with the ball. For example, during a recent game, he drove to the basket and, seeing help defense from Hayes, passed to Looney before receiving the ball back to shoot over a screen. This ability to read the defense and find his shot showcases a newfound confidence in Moody’s game, which could make him a valuable asset this season.

Trace Jackson-Davis, another promising young Warrior, has also stood out. Though primarily known for his athleticism and rebounding, he’s displayed a keen eye for playmaking as well. Jackson-Davis has demonstrated his ability to find open shooters and cutters, much like Draymond Green. He possesses the basketball IQ to make plays out of the short pick-and-roll and dribble handoff situations, making him a versatile piece in the Warriors’ rotation.

Veteran Role Players on the Rise

While the young players have shone, the Warriors’ veteran role players are also looking strong. Kevon Looney and Gary Payton II, key contributors to Golden State’s 2022 championship run, have returned with renewed vigor after struggling with injuries last season. Looney’s rebounding and defensive positioning are back to their best, and he’s moving with a quickness that was missing in recent years. Meanwhile, Payton II is showcasing the kind of explosive energy and defense that earned him a spot on the championship roster. If they can stay healthy and maintain this level of play, they will be invaluable assets in the Warriors’ pursuit of another title.

Buddy Hield’s Offensive Firepower

Acquiring Buddy Hield adds another dimension to Golden State’s offense. Hield brings not only his sharpshooting but also his ability to create his shot in clutch moments. He has the versatility to operate as both a catch-and-shoot threat and a playmaker when the shot clock winds down. For example, in a recent game, Hield was handed the ball with just seconds remaining on the shot clock, and he managed to sink a contested shot. His presence will be particularly valuable in games where the Warriors need someone to create offense independently, providing a reliable secondary scorer alongside Curry.

Defense Remains a Priority

The Warriors’ defensive potential is just as exciting as their offensive prowess. With Green anchoring the defense and players like Payton II, Wiggins, and even the young Jackson-Davis stepping up, Golden State has the personnel to be a formidable defensive team. Wiggins, who missed time last season, is expected to return to form, and his ability to guard multiple positions will be key. The Warriors also benefit from Green’s leadership on defense and his ability to communicate and position teammates effectively. This balanced approach on both ends of the court makes Golden State a difficult team to beat.

Conclusion

Golden State’s preseason performance suggests they are primed for a strong showing in the 2023-2024 NBA season. Their depth, shooting, defensive versatility, and contributions from both young players and seasoned veterans make them one of the most well-rounded teams in the league. While preseason games are not always a reliable indicator of regular-season success, the Warriors have shown enough to warrant optimism. If they can carry this momentum forward, Golden State could very well be on the path to another championship run. The Warriors are back, and they are looking more dangerous than ever.

4o