2013-14 NBA Preview: 10 Teams Best Suited To Play Small Ball
By John Kim
2. Golden State Warriors
April 11, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors point guard Stephen Curry (30) looks on during the second quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Oracle Arena. The City Thunder defeated the Warriors 116-97. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
In the 2013 Playoffs, the Warriors utilized a small ball lineup that often featured Harrison Barnes at power forward and Draymond Green at center. This lineup was surprisingly effective.
Harrison Barnes has put on quite a bit of muscle in the offseason and has the ability to play the power forward position. His post-game is largely dependent on mismatches, but is nonetheless above average. If Barnes can use his strength and quickness to his advantage, he will be able to be effective for long stretches throughout games.
With Klay Thompson, Andre Iguodala, Marreese Speights and Green, the Warriors are stacked at the guard and forward position with strength, length and defense. Golden State has the flexibility to play multiple players at multiple positions without compromising the team’s overall success. There is athleticism, strength, defense and quickness at every position which gives the Warriors one of the rosters best suited to play small ball.