3 Things Golden State Warriors must prove early on this season

By Tony Pesta | Oct 15, 2021

PORTLAND, OREGON - OCTOBER 04: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors reacts against the Portland Trail Blazers in the second quarter during the preseason game at Moda Center on October 04, 2021 in Portland, Oregon. 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 Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

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Golden State Warriors (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

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.

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