They are an elite defensive team
The Golden State Warriors might not have reached the playoffs last season but there should be no mistakes in anointing them as one of the better defensive teams in the league. Their tandem of lengthy, athletic wings that can defend multiple positions — led by a mastermind in Draymond Green — gave them a wide array of strategies to slow down opponents.
This season, that youth and athleticism has been slightly replaced by veteran experience and intelligence. Kelly Oubre Jr. has been swapped for Otto Porter Jr. and Andre Iguodala, two names who can have a profound impact on the Dubs’ defense.
Meanwhile, Andrew Wiggins is still there to be the shot-chaser he has become. His hustle has not been unnoticed by the Warriors and he is vitally important to their perimeter defense. Meanwhile, Green remains the vocal leader who pulls everything together.
The Warriors are going to score a bunch of points this season but it is more crucial they prove to be a sturdy defensive team once again. Golden State will want to make an early statement that they have not forgotten the value of being a gritty, versatile defensive unit.