3 reasons the Golden State Warriors are legit contenders

Jan 3, 2021; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) smiles after a basket against the Portland Trail Blazers during the first quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2021; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) smiles after a basket against the Portland Trail Blazers during the first quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports /

The role players have stepped up

While it’s tough to say Kelly Oubre Jr. has found his rhythm, he is playing much better over his last few games.

After scoring nine points in the first two games combined, Oubre Jr. had a four-game streak of hitting double figures. More recently, he put up 17 points on 6-for-11 shooting. He’s just one of several players that have improved their game.

Kevon Looney is playing better, so it Brad Wanamaker. However, the other player that deserves more of a mention is James Wiseman.

With Marquese Chriss out, Wiseman has stepped up and has transformed into the team’s starting center. While he’s still not trusted down the stretch, Wiseman is averaging 10.6 points and 1.5 blocks per game.

Draymond Green, considering Stephen Curry is the only real star, has also been leading the team. He’s not scoring much, but he has been being the vocal and emotional leader. It’s been a full team effort for the Warriors in order to bring their season back to life.