Golden State Warriors must keep big picture in mind

As the NBA trade deadline comes and goes, the Golden State Warriors take another step forward in playing the long game – rather than dumping all their chips into the next two seasons. See, the Dubs don’t have to go all-in just yet. Patience is a virtue under these circumstances.

I understand the frustration from fans, But, it’s important to remember that just a few years ago, the Warriors won a franchise-record 67 games en route to their first championship. What ensued over the next four seasons was an unparalleled run of dominance that collapsed as quickly as it began.

It can be hard for fans to remember the decades-long drought between titles (Partly due to the fact that many fans weren’t even born yet). However, keeping this in mind makes it a lot easier to plan for the future.

The Golden State Warriors don’t need to win a title this season or the next. They are better off playing the long game.

It’s been two years since the Warriors were last in the finals. Just two. While it feels longer, the franchise is still fresh off a historically great stretch of seasons. Considering all that has happened since then, injuries and free agency departures, the Warriors are fairly satisfied with where they are.

Sure, the towel has basically been thrown in for this season. The odds of winning a title are minuscule and even when Klay Thompson returns next year – it will take a miracle for them to make a big enough leap towards a title in such little time.

But, that’s okay. As long as health is on their side, the Dubs can rest assured they have at least three-to-four more years of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green and Thompson. Combine this core with the development of players like James Wiseman, Kelly Oubre, Andrew Wiggins and the potential for key additions through the upcoming NBA Draft and we are looking at a hypothetical championship window that spans across the next five seasons (or longer if they find a star in the draft).

Missing the playoffs this season isn’t the end of the world. In fact, a first round loss next season wouldn’t be so disastrous either. The Dubs must keep the big picture in mind and understand that with a little bit of patience and consistent improvements, this team can strike big in just a few years.