Golden State Warriors: Ranking each potential Play-In opponent

By Tony Pesta | Apr 29, 2021

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - MARCH 20: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies handles the ball against Andrew Wiggins #22 of the Golden State Warriors during the first half at FedExForum on March 20, 2021 in Memphis, Tennessee. 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 Justin Ford/Getty Images) /

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Golden State Warriors (Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty Images) /

Golden State Warriors opponents: San Antonio Spurs

The addition of the NBA Play-In Tournament brings the possibility for mayhem. In a single-game elimination format, anything is possible, and one heat check from a star player could mean the difference between moving forward and going home.

For this reason, the San Antonio Spurs pose the least threat of defeating the Golden State Warriors. To keep it simple, the Spurs have fewer guys who can catch fire and beat you on their own.

This isn’t to say the Spurs don’t have streaky scorers. DeMar DeRozan is still a high-level player while names like Patty Mills, Rudy Gay, Derrick White, Dejounte Murray and Keldon Johnson can all heat up and beat you one way or another.

But, that’s the thing, San Antonio opts for a more team-oriented attack. While this is a threat in its own right — it’s not as scary as say, taking on Damian Lillard or Luka Doncic in a winner takes all format.

Nonetheless, the Spurs never bow down easily and the Warriors can’t overlook them. They’ve posted a top-10 Defense this season and their all-around team effort is something to respect when it comes down to winning a Play-In game.

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