Ranking the 2 outcomes for the Golden State Warriors first-round opponent
Golden State Warriors potential first-round opponent: Utah Jazz
The Jazz would be a difficult first-round opponent for the Warriors, and it’s mainly because of their dominance offensively and their size.
Utah has the No. 1 offensive rating. They also have the No. 3 net rating, topping even Golden State. Donovan Mitchell leads the team in scoring, averaging 26 points per game and shooting 45% from the field.
On top of their shooting guard’s ability to score at will, Utah has a rare combination of two elite 7-foot rim protectors which may also be difficult for the Warriors to keep off both the offensive and defensive glass.
Hassan Whiteside, earlier in the season, had a 17 rebound game on the Warriors, securing 5 extra opportunities on the offensive glass. 6-foot-6 Draymond Green and 6-foot-9 Kevon Looney have the size to counter the duo to some extent, but it’s certainly easier said than done.
Guard Jordan Clarkson, who can light it up off the bench, will also play a big factor and is almost impossible to stop when he finds his groove. Couple the offensive and defensive prowess with the size of Utah, and they’ll be a difficult first-round opponent wherever they land.