The Golden State Warriors are experiencing a surprising struggle in the current NBA season, and advanced analytics suggest that the team has been outscored by 5.6 points per 100 possessions with their star player, Stephen Curry, on the court. This statistical anomaly becomes more apparent when looking at the performance differentials of Curry’s teammates. Despite Curry’s outstanding individual performance, the team’s starting lineup, which was once formidable, has seen a decline in overall effectiveness.
The Warriors’ struggles have led to questions about their approach to maximizing Curry’s remaining peak years. The team, led by general manager Mike Dunleavy, made significant moves in the offseason to build a competitive roster around Curry. However, the team’s 9-11 start and issues with turnovers and fouls have raised concerns about their ability to contend for a championship.
Curry, who turns 36 soon, remains an iconic figure for the Warriors and a significant factor in the team’s valuation. However, the key challenge for the organization is how to support Curry in winning more NBA titles. The Warriors’ previous “two-timeline plan” ended with the trade of James Wiseman, leading to a shift in focus to a win-now approach.
Despite loading up on experienced players, the Warriors have struggled to find consistency this season. The recent loss to the Clippers, squandering a substantial lead, highlighted ongoing issues for the team. The return of injured players like Chris Paul and Andrew Wiggins may impact the team’s performance, but if the struggles persist, the organization may need to reconsider its approach.
The article suggests that if the Warriors continue to falter, Dunleavy may need to explore significant changes, possibly involving trades or roster adjustments. The loyalty to veterans like Klay Thompson and Draymond Green, key figures in the Warriors’ past success, could be reevaluated if it becomes necessary for the team’s future success. The emergence of young players like Brandin Podziemski and Moses Moody offers some hope for the team’s future, but tough decisions may be required to ensure the best support for Curry in his later years.