How first round of NBA Playoffs affects Golden State Warriors

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - AUGUST 30: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Utah Jazz reacts against the Denver Nuggets during the fourth quarter in Game Six of the Western Conference First Round during the 2020 NBA Playoffs at AdventHealth Arena at ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on August 30, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. 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 Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - AUGUST 30: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Utah Jazz reacts against the Denver Nuggets during the fourth quarter in Game Six of the Western Conference First Round during the 2020 NBA Playoffs at AdventHealth Arena at ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on August 30, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. 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 Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
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The NBA Playoffs are in full swing and the first round is over. Let’s see how the results will impact the Golden State Warriors.

The Orlando bubble is working like a charm as the NBA Playoffs are officially moving out of the first round. The impact of these first few games is sure to reach the Golden State Warriors as new players potentially hit the market.

Let’s start with a recap. The Warriors should be thankful that the Oklahoma City Thunder, Indiana Pacers, Utah Jazz and Philadelphia 76ers all fell short of advancing to the next round. These are the teams that Golden State needs to target in the offseason for trades and their failures in the playoffs will benefit negotiations.

The Thunder avoided a full rebuild by shocking the world this season. Nonetheless, their Cinderella story ended abruptly in Game 7 versus the Houston Rockets. Now, players such as Dennis Schroder, Steven Adams and Danilo Gallinari could become available to the Dubs one way or another.

Similarly, the Pacers are facing a rebuilding process after being swept by the Miami Heat. It feels increasingly likely that Victor Oladipo is planning his exit next year – putting names like Myles Turner and T.J. Warren on the trading block. Granted, a deal for one of these players might not form until the deadline.

As for the 76ers, the duo of Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid is entering their last stand. If a new head coach isn’t enough to unlock their full potential, a change will have to happen. The Warriors need to monitor this situation for a chance to poach Embiid or Simmons for themselves.

Lastly, the Jazz lost an excruciatingly close battle with the Denver Nuggets. Donovan Mitchell was visibly frustrated with his team throughout the series – indicating that the front office might have to shake up his supporting cast in order to keep their star satisfied. Will Rudy Gobert become available? This is something to watch out for now that the Jazz’s season is over.

Looking ahead to the second round, the Dubs will keep a close eye on the competition to see who they will give them the most trouble next season when they make their own run for a title.

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