Golden State Warriors: Best and worst case scenarios for playoffs
By Tony Pesta
Worst-case scenarios
Let’s get this out of the way. A doomsday scenario for the Golden State Warriors could mean a first round exit — but what exactly does that entail?
Warriors can’t get healthy
The most important factor heading into the postseason is the Warriors’ health. Will Stephen Curry be back and at 100% before the playoffs begin? Will Klay Thompson continue ramping up to his former usage? Will the rest of the team avoid untimely injuries?
We can’t make any predictions on this front but it’s safe to say that one more devasting injury would put the nail in the coffin for this team that is currently on the ropes.
James Wiseman’s absence is felt
One player we can rule out for the postseason is James Wiseman. The struggling big has now suffered yet another setback in his recovery and the Warriors have ruled him out for the remainder of the season.
Wiseman’s absence might not be a big deal. The Warriors looked just fine without him to start the 2021-22 NBA season and can trust Kevon Looney to give his all each night. However, there is no denying the loss of their only seven-footer could mean disaster for the Dubs.
Role players disappear
Strength in Numbers continues to be the motto to live by. It’s hard to see this team making a run at the title if their x-factor role players don’t step up.
Andrew Wiggins, Jordan Poole, Nemanja Bjelica, Otto Porter, Damion Lee, Gary Payton and Andre Iguodala all need to show up at convenient times, or else the Warriors’ hopes of winning a title can go out the window.