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Stephen A. Smith retains belief Golden State Warriors “can go to the Finals”

By Peter O'Keefe

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - MARCH 23: ESPN Stephen A. Smith before the game between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Brooklyn Nets at FedExForum on March 23, 2022 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)
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - MARCH 23: ESPN Stephen A. Smith before the game between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Brooklyn Nets at FedExForum on March 23, 2022 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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After a disappointing season to date that’s seen them yet to secure a playoff berth, many have dismissed the Golden State Warriors chances of repeating as NBA champions.

One person yet to put a line through the Warriors is Stephen A. Smith, with the high-profile television personality believing that the return of Andrew Wiggins, and an underwhelming Western Conference, provides the hope that Golden State can reach their seventh NBA Finals appearance in nine seasons.

With the return of Andrew Wiggins, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith still holds belief the Golden State Warriors can once again return to the NBA Finals.

Speaking on First Take on Tuesday, Smith was adamant the Warriors could return to the Finals despite their ‘rollercoaster’ season. However, he stopped short of predicting they’d actually achieve the feat.

"“They can go to the Finals…I can’t rule out the Golden State Warriors. Now, they haven’t had Andrew Wiggins..obviously an elite defender, obviously an 18-point per game scorer who can finish in the open court, who can score from the perimeter, and can defend. That’s an additional third weapon… I’m sorry, I can’t rule out anything when the West is as wild as it is.”"

Smith was a notable Warrior believer last season in the face of a wave of belief that the franchise was past its glory days. He was ultimately proven correct when a Stephen Curry-led Golden State defeated the Boston Celtics to win the NBA Finals in six games. Smith’s correct forecast led to a rather cringeworthy video of Warrior owner Joe Lacob, who welcomed Smith back to First Take while seen sleeping with the championship trophy.

The defending champions produced a crucial comeback win against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday, overturning a 10-point halftime deficit to claim a 135-126 victory. It puts destiny back in their own hands, with a top six playoff spot ensured if they claim wins in Sacramento and Portland to finish the season.

How the return of Andrew Wiggins will impact the Golden State Warriors. dark. Next

As is the nature of the business, Smith has got plenty wrong across the course of his decorated career. He was one of few who got it right last season though, and Warrior fans will be hoping his belief in the franchise rings true again.

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