(VIDEO) There’s Something Different About These Warriors

The Golden State Warriors recently showcased their revamped roster, resting their three top players—Steph Curry, Draymond Green, and Andrew Wiggins—and still securing a decisive victory. Despite these key absences, the Warriors demonstrated their new focus on three-point shooting, which they have successfully employed throughout the preseason. Over the last three games, they have achieved an impressive nearly 50% success rate from beyond the arc, hitting 59 of 125 attempted shots. This strategy, explicitly endorsed by coach Steve Kerr, suggests that the Warriors will increasingly rely on the three-point shot in the upcoming season.

In their first preseason game against the Lakers, the Warriors, although struggling, attempted 48 three-pointers. This shooting-heavy approach could be a double-edged sword, reminiscent of previous seasons where the team’s performance could be volatile depending on their shooting success. However, when the team finds its rhythm, as seen in the recent games, they appear nearly unbeatable. The success of their strategy has also been supported by the trend in the NBA, as last season’s top three-point shooting teams were also the ones that reached the Finals.

In Kerr’s words, “I want Wigs shooting six threes a game. I want Brandon, Moses, and DeAnthony… I want us to be a high-volume three-point shooting team.” This comment confirms the organization’s renewed commitment to leveraging their shooters from across the roster. New acquisition Buddy Hield is a perfect embodiment of this strategy. Known for his three-point prowess, Hield has consistently delivered on his shooting, living up to the Warriors’ expectations for his role on the team. His shooting efficiency and ability to move without the ball align with the Warriors’ philosophy of ball movement and floor spacing. This tactic is designed to make opposing teams’ big men, who often dominate in size, less effective by forcing them to defend on the perimeter.

The Warriors also have new faces like Lindy Waters, who has quickly made an impression. Waters, a recent addition from the Oklahoma City Thunder, has already proven his value as a shooter. Standing at 6’6″, Waters brings versatility on both ends of the court. His game-winning three against the Clippers displayed his clutch ability and made him a strong candidate for regular season minutes. Given his shooting ability and size, he could become a valuable rotation piece for the Warriors, much like Gary Payton II in their previous championship season. Waters’ shooting accuracy and defensive potential could make him a key contributor for the Warriors if he continues to impress.

While the Warriors’ revamped offense has grabbed the headlines, their defense and versatility should not be overlooked. Players like DeAnthony Melton have demonstrated flashes of brilliance, both offensively and defensively. Melton, who struggled with his shot in a game against the Detroit Pistons, has shown potential as a playmaker and an additional defensive presence. His chemistry with teammates like Trayce Jackson-Davis has also been on display, as the duo has consistently connected for efficient scoring plays, particularly on lobs and pick-and-rolls. Melton’s versatility to run the offense when Curry and Green are off the floor is an invaluable asset, giving the team more depth and ensuring they have options to maintain offensive cohesion.

Young players such as Moses Moody and Jonathan Kuminga have also shown improvements. Moody, now more comfortable attacking the rim and displaying a developing mid-range game, has added another dimension to his skill set. His defense remains a strong point, utilizing his athleticism to disrupt opponents. Kuminga has made strides in his three-point shooting, while rookie Brandin Podziemski has impressed as a backup playmaker. The preseason has allowed these players to gain experience and show their potential, which may earn them more significant roles as the season progresses.

In their pursuit of a return to championship contention, the Warriors are banking on a well-rounded, high-volume three-point shooting strategy that has been successful in the modern NBA. By prioritizing shooting across the board, Golden State aims to capitalize on their offensive versatility. However, this approach could leave them vulnerable against larger teams, particularly on defense. Yet, the Warriors’ philosophy has always been to play to their strengths. By focusing on their offensive firepower, they aim to exploit the weaknesses of larger opponents by forcing them to defend in uncomfortable positions on the perimeter.

Golden State’s decision to “live and die by the three” represents a calculated risk. It provides the team with a clear identity and a path to success that has proven effective for other top-tier teams in the league. As they gear up for the regular season, the Warriors have assembled a deep roster with shooting talent across positions. Veterans like Curry and Green will undoubtedly be essential, but the contributions from their supporting cast could determine the team’s overall success.

Players like Buddy Hield and Lindy Waters could prove pivotal in maintaining the Warriors’ offensive intensity, while DeAnthony Melton, Moses Moody, and Jonathan Kuminga will add depth and versatility. If they can maintain the current level of three-point shooting accuracy and ensure consistent defensive effort, this team may very well compete for the title once again.

Ultimately, the Warriors are embracing a new era of their brand of basketball—one that emphasizes shooting, movement, and positional flexibility. The preseason has offered glimpses of the potential success of this strategy. Now, it’s up to the Warriors to carry this momentum into the regular season and see how far this shooting-heavy approach can take them. While not without risks, their commitment to the three-point shot could position them as a formidable force in the NBA once more.

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