The Golden State Warriors hold a 9-6 record after 15 games. In these 15 games, no other team has faced more back-to-backs or had a tougher schedule to start the season.
The schedule has been so challenging that Warriors head coach Steve Kerr expressed his feelings, saying, “It’s been the toughest early schedule I’ve ever been a part of in my entire NBA life.”
Kerr, who played in a different era lacking modern medicine and sports science, has never seen a season with a tougher start than this.
Players’ routines thrown out the window at schedule’s expense
The second half of this back-to-back against Miami will mark the Warriors’ 17th game in 29 days across 13 different cities. Such extensive travel can take a toll on anyone, and with the demanding nature of an NBA season, consistent recovery, rest, and proper diet are not always guaranteed for the players.
Prominent sports writer Bill Simmons was stunned when he saw the Warriors’ schedule and remarked, “I think there’s a real chance Adam Silver hates Golden State because I can’t think of another explanation when I look at the schedule.”
NBA: Golden State Warriors at New Orleans Pelicans
Credit: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images
While Simmons’ comment is tongue-in-cheek, it reflects the belief that the schedule makers perhaps didn’t have the Warriors’ interests in mind.
As of November 19th, the Warriors lead the league with 17 games played, while Western Conference powerhouse Houston Rockets have only 13. The Warriors also top the league in road games with 12, and only four other teams have more than eight.
No team has as many back-to-backs as the Warriors, with their playoff opponent from last season, Houston, having zero as of now.
Silver lining is the best is yet to come for the Warriors
The upside of this tough start is that every team still plays 82 games. A challenging beginning often leads to an easier schedule later in the season.
NBA: Golden State Warriors at New Orleans Pelicans
Credit: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images
Prioritizing healthy star players through this grueling stretch is more important than the team’s record, which still looks impressive overall.
As elder statesmen in the league, overcoming such a schedule and remaining unscathed bodes well for their prospects this season, indicating that the best is yet to come.