The Golden State Warriors vs. the Central Division

Mar 15, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Harrison Barnes (4) scores against Chicago Bulls guard Marquis Teague (25) and guard Jimmy Butler (21) during the second half at Oracle Arena. Chicago won 113-95. Mandatory Credit: Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports

This year, the Golden State Warriors will play a number of games against what could end up being the toughest division in the NBA: the Central Division.  The resident group of teams in the Midwest includes the Chicago Bulls, Indiana Pacers, Detroit Pistons, Milwaukee Bucks, and Cleveland Cavaliers.  The top two teams not only consistently present themselves as primary threats to the champion Miami Heat, but also make their name in hard-nosed defense both on the interior and on the perimeter.  Mired in constant mediocrity, the Milwaukee Bucks still managed an eighth seed spot in the playoffs last year.  The Pistons are shaping up to be one of the rising teams in the league, brought up on the shoulders of sophomore center Andre Drummond.  Meanwhile, the Cavs have nowhere to go but up, and a ton of potential behind star point guard Kyrie Irving (and backup Jarrett Jack).

So, against this tough division full of playoff mainstays, constant competitors, and rising stars, how will the Warriors stack up this season?  Let’s take a look.