Golden State Warriors: 5 predictions for the 2019-20 NBA season

By Tony Pesta | Aug 13, 2019

DETROIT, MI - DECEMBER 1: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors is introduced before the game against the Detroit Pistons on December 1, 2018 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Brian Sevald/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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4. Perimeter defense will be worse than ever

Although we may see Willie Cauley-Stein average a career-high in blocks, the Golden State Warriors will not be the elite defensive team we have come to recognize.

The loss of Kevin Durant is going to impact not only the team’s offense but their defense as well. Through his three seasons with Golden State, KD became one of the league’s most underrated defenders. Equipped with quick feet and an insane reach, Durant was capable of disrupting even the best offensive players.

On top of losing Durant, the Dubs will be without Klay Thompson for much of the regular season. This opens up a huge weak spot in the Warriors defense as Stephen Curry lacks the physical tools needed to be a good defender.

Without Durant or Thompson there to help cover up Curry, the Dubs will be left exposed on the perimeter. The addition of D’Angelo Russell doesn’t help either, as D-Lo is far from being an elite defender as well.

Draymond Green remains the team’s best defender, but there is only so much one man can do. The loss of Andre Iguodala will also contribute to the team’s upcoming struggles. Expect the Warriors to have a poor perimeter defense.

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