Predicting 2013-14 Western Conference Standings Pre-Free Agency

No. 3 Seed – Golden State Warriors (2012-13 – No. 6 Seed)

March 13, 2012; Sacramento, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors point guard Stephen Curry (30) and power forward David Lee (10) on the bench during the fourth quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Power Balance Pavilion. The Golden State Warriors defeated the Sacramento Kings 115-89. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

The Warriors’ rise hinges on their health, even if they lose Jarrett Jack and Carl Landry to free agency. With that said, the Warriors will be better next year.

The return of Brandon Rush and a fully healthy Andrew Bogut will essentially be two additions to the team. In 44 regular season games with Bogut, the Warriors won 25 of them.

Harrison Barnes’ sophomore season should really be considered a sophomore and a half season considering his spectacular performance in the playoffs, an experience which will undoubtedly benefit his play starting next season.

Additionally, Stephen Curry will continue his dominance from beyond the arc and develop into a better point guard overall.