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Golden State Warriors: A culture shift could be deadly

By Tony Pesta

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 18: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors laughs after he is fouled by Kostas Antetokounmpo #37 of the Los Angeles Lakers at Chase Center on October 18, 2019 in San Francisco, California. 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. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 18: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors laughs after he is fouled by Kostas Antetokounmpo #37 of the Los Angeles Lakers at Chase Center on October 18, 2019 in San Francisco, California. 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. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /
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The Golden State Warriors culture may be shifting and it would have deadly consequences.

The Golden State Warriors have built a dynasty through more than just their play on the court. Though the Dubs have been blessed with some of the most talented players in league history, it is their championship pedigree and culture that has led to them being so successful.

From day one, the Warriors have preached selflessness. Even when they added a four-time scoring champion in Kevin Durant, teamwork was the overall priority. No matter what happened, the Dubs knew they were capable of overcoming an obstacle if they worked together.

This system was put into place with the help of savvy veteran players and a brilliant head coach in Steve Kerr. The likes of David Lee, Andrew Bogut, Shaun Livingston and Andre Iguodala played a pivotal role in creating the championship culture that has reigned supreme in Golden State.

For the first time since the dynasty began, none of those veteran players will be present on the roster. At age 31, Curry is the oldest player the Warriors currently have. Outside of Klay Thompson and Draymond Green, the rest of the team is extremely inexperienced.

As a result, the culture in Golden State may be undergoing a change. The youthful players on the roster will not only impact the Warriors performance on the court but the lockerroom presence as well.

The Dubs have five rookies and two second-year players on the roster. Add two players with no experience in the NBA Playoffs and there is a clear issue here. Competing for a championship will be a challenge with a roster this young.

It is now up to the original big three to hold the team accountable and keep things running smoothly. The margin for error is smaller than ever this season with massive free agency losses and a devastating injury to Thompson. This means a lack of focus or shift in culture is more than enough to derail the season.

Next. Warriors: Russell and Curry's backcourt potential. dark

Curry, Thompson and Green’s leadership skills will be put to the test this year. The fate of the Warriors dynasty rests in their hands.

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