Golden State ranked fifth in the NBA in defensive rating last season, allowing an average of 104.32 points per 100 possessions. A year earlier, the Warriors led the league at 101.86.
They started this season by allowing 129 points to the Spurs.
The Warriors’ signing of Kevin Durant was the dominant story of the offseason, but the team had to make a few sacrifices to fit him under the salary cap. Center Andrew Bogut, a defensive and rebounding force, was traded to the Mavericks. Golden State didn’t re-sign forward Harrison Barnes, who also ended up in Dallas. Reserve shot blocker Festus Ezeli signed with the Trail Blazers.
Golden State has assembled an offense that might rank with the best in league history, but the sacrifices on defense are worrisome. Zaza Pachulia was brought in as the new starting center, but there isn’t a clear rim protector anywhere in the rotation.
That brings us to tonight’s question: Have the Warriors regressed enough on defense to cost them a shot at another NBA championship, or even a third straight Western Conference title? Take to the comments section below to share your thoughts and opinions on the topic. We look forward to what you have to say.
The Warriors main strength was their depth last year so it’s though to think they will be a better team record wise over a full season. In a 7 game serious though if they can d up and rebound they should be well better off with durant. That’s not a given though. Durant might be tall but dude couldn’t even bench 135 when he got drafted
With McCaw getting hurt, they need a 2/3 off the bench, and 1-2 bigs depending on if Damian Jones can come back from his injury and give them some of what they got from ezili (rim protection, pick and roll defense, rebounding, catch and finish at the rim). Bogut is a significant loss, b/c he allowed them to play a different way at times. That being said, Zaza semi emulates his roll on the offensive end, but can’t come close to replacing him on defense. They need a 2nd big that can do as described, and I think they can possibly add someone during the season. It would be nice if Javale McGee could fill one of those roles, but that remains to be seen.
possibly. mccaw is a stud. they can move him for help inside if they need it.
I definely think they need another big man to protect the rim and rebound. Got a proposed trade Shaun Livingston for nerlen Noel