Ranking the Top 5 Starting Lineups in the NBA

4. Golden State Warriors

Stephen Curry (PG)-Klay Thompson/Andrew Iguodala (SG)-Harrison Barnes/Iguodala (SF)-David Lee (PF)-Andrew Bogut (C)

May 16, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors point guard Stephen Curry (30) acknowledges the crowd after game six of the second round of the 2013 NBA Playoffs against the San Antonio Spurs at Oracle Arena. The Spurs defeated the Warriors 94-82. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

I argued internally a lot between my No. 4 and No. 5 picks, but I ended up having to go with the Warriors at four. I’ll explain the reasoning between them and No. 5 later.

First off, Stephen Curry.  The Human Torch. This dude shoots so well he breaks the traditional pick-and-roll defense. Players aren’t supposed to sink the shots he makes.  He scored a monstrous 54 points under the Madison Square Garden lights. He’s arguably a top five point guard in the league, and definitely top seven. He’s an offensive force of nature. Shore up that defense, and this kid will keep lighting up the NBA and bringing national attention to the Bay Area.

Then you have a bit of a lineup question. Andre Iguodala will wither play shooting guard or small forward, which dictates whether Harrison Barnes or Klay Thompson starts.  Either way, Iguodala provides elite defensive ability and slashing offense alongside 1.) an athletic, wing threat forward or 2.) a defensive stopper, three-and-D guard. They’re in good shape on the wing.  Toss in the reigning double-double champ and a block machine in David Lee and Andrew Bogut respectively, and you’re good for a fantastic starting five.