The Golden State Warriors are gearing up for another NBA season with Stephen Curry at the helm of the offense. For the first time, Curry gets a full offseason of preparation alongside running mate Jimmy Butler.
The Warriors added some pieces on the margins, bringing in key veterans Al Horford and De’Anthony Melton into the fold.
Beyond Horford and Melton (who, in fairness, was on the Warriors before he tore his ACL six games into the year), the roster is fairly similar to what it was last season, as Golden State’s front office is hoping that continuity and chemistry can help steer them into another deep playoff run.
The Warriors fell short during the playoffs last season, losing in the Western Conference Semifinals to the Minnesota Timberwolves.
The elimination did come with some caveats, namely Curry missing the end of the series due to an injury. The Warriors are seemingly banking on a fully healthy roster going further this time around.
How Does ESPN Think the Warriors Will Do This Season?
According to ESPN’s projections, the Warriors are expected to win 56.1 games this season, a number well above most estimates for the Dubs.
In fact, ESPN projects them to finish second in the Western Conference.
“The Warriors might have the single most surprising projection for any team, nearly four wins clear of the non-Oklahoma City field,” Pelton wrote in his NBA predictions story on ESPN.
“Having added RAPM superstar Jimmy Butler III for a full season — they won at a 63-win clip (76.7%) with Butler in the lineup last season — the Warriors also have 11 players who rate better than league average, tied with the Thunder for most of any team.”
The combination of Curry, Butler, and Draymond Green should deliver come the regular season, given their experience and leadership - though their postseason success will truly measure the team.
Curry’s career is coming to an end soon, and if the Warriors want to make another run and take advantage of his remaining career, the time is now.
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