Golden State Warriors’ secret to success is continuity
Ahead of their matchup tonight, one thing that separates the Warriors from the Blazers besides their record: continuity.
As the Golden State Warriors travel to Portland to face the Trail Blazers tonight, its noteworthy how both franchises have embarked on very different paths in a short amount of time. Just two years ago, both Golden State and Portland seemed to be on the rise with a core group of young players leading their teams to the postseason.
Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green among others were perceived to finally bring the Warriors out of mediocrity for years to come. Meanwhile, the Blazers placed their faith in their young superstar duo: Damian Lillard and LaMarcus Aldridge. Along with sharpshooter Wesley Matthews and defensive anchor Nicolas Batum, they would finally form the unit to contend for a championship.
Not long ago, Golden State and Portland seemed to be the future of the NBA. Today, these two franchises couldn’t be further apart. While the Warriors’ core has remained together, building chemistry over the years towards NBA greatness, the Blazers have watched their hopes of contending for a championship slip away, along with many of their core franchise pieces.
Aldridge left for a chance to win a ring with the always-competitive San Antonio Spurs. Matthews headed to Texas as well, signing a four-year, $70 million contract to join the Mavericks. When Portland opted to trade away Batum in the offseason to the Charlotte Hornets, all that was left of the original core was Lillard, solidifying the Blazers’ transition into rebuilding mode.
While it can be argued that the writing was on the wall for these events to occur — like Aldridge leaving in free agency — it has become imperative for a franchise to keep its core group of players together, and allow time to build cohesion. It’s challenging to convince players to stay for the long-haul, and it can be a significant investment of time, yet it is the only way for franchises in the NBA to truly prepare for potential success.
The Warriors’ were tempted to experiment with their core two summers ago when a Kevin Love trade for Klay Thompson was being debated amongst management. The possibility of a Curry and Love All-Star duo seemed appealing at the time, and Golden State could have easily opted for more star-power over building a foundation. But looking back on that now, it’s safe to say that making such a trade would have been a mistake.
Dealing Thompson away would not have allowed Golden State’s core to gain the necessary experience to prepare for postseason success. Two playoff-exits at the hands of the Spurs and Clippers only aided the Warriors in finally reaching, and winning the Finals this past June. Witnessing your core group stay together through the tough times and find ways to overcome challenges is vital. It helps their growth, and as a fan it’s much more satisfying to observe.
With the added growth and development, you have the possibility of discovering more star talent. After signing
More from Stephen Curry
- Golden State Warriors: History shows USA may need Stephen Curry for more than the Olympics
- Golden State Warriors: Stephen Curry’s ‘underpaid’ status doesn’t evaluate his impact
- Golden State Warriors: Where ESPN experts rank Stephen Curry in MVP favoritism
- Stephen Curry embracing new approach for the Golden State Warriors
- Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry makes huge claim on GOAT point-guard debate
Thompson to a contract extension, he proceeded to have his best season yet, earning his first All-Star selection. And this season? It’s safe to say that
Draymond Greenis a bona fide all-star. After keeping their core together, the Warriors now have three star players in their pocket: Curry, Thompson, and Green.
It’s the reason why so many promising teams in the league today remain unable to reach their potential. Constantly shifting the roster and forcing players to create chemistry means seeking short-term rather than long-term success. It doesn’t always result in putting the best product on the court.
A message to all the other NBA teams: take note of how the Golden State Warriors built their team for success. It’s a process, and it won’t come easy or quick, but if it means having one of the best seasons in NBA history, it’s worth it.