Schedule fact shouldn't be lost amid Golden State Warriors' early struggles

There's a reason why many avoid sweeping statements so early in an NBA season. With 30 teams and an 82-game regular season, some initial records and numbers can be distorted by the schedule. So, is that the case for the Golden State Warriors?

Granted, much of the Warriors' early issues have been of their own volition. Klay Thompson and Andrew Wiggins would sure take responsibility for their form issues, so too Draymond Green for his suspension, as well as Steve Kerr who would undoubtedly acknowledge that he could have done a better job of putting his players in better positions to succeed. However, that's not to say that Golden State's tough schedule should be washed away with little thought.

The Golden State Warriors have had a tough schedule to open the season, unquestionably contributing to their 8-9 record through 17 games.

After a season-opening loss to the Phoenix Suns, the Warriors played their next eight games in eight different cities including two seperate back-to-backs. But instead of getting hung up on the time and place, let's dive into who Golden State have actually played.

Of their 17 games so far this season, 14 have come against teams currently sitting in the top eight of their conference. They've faced two lowly teams in the Detroit Pistons and San Antonio Spurs, while every other game has forecast as a major challenge, including a road game against the New Orleans Pelicans who currently sit ninth in the West.

According to Tankathon, the Warriors have the fourth easiest remaining schedule only behind three Eastern Conference teams -- the Philadelphia 76ers, Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers.

Golden State have only played the bottom four teams in the West -- the Utah Jazz, Portland Trail Blazers, Memphis Grizzlies and Spurs -- once combined. They'll have a further 12 games against these opponents, although It's worth noting that Memphis star Ja Morant will have returned from his 25-game suspension by the time they meet for the first of three games on January 15.

This isn't to provide the Warriors with an excuse for their underwhelming form in recent times, but it's a factor that should at least be acknowledged. They've done little to prove their championship credentials so far, yet perhaps they should be afforded a little more time before drastic changes are called for.

After their final In-Season Tournament game against the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday night, Golden State will face the LA Clippers in three of their next four matchups. That could prove an important stanza for both teams given their respective struggles, and provide further clarity on where each side stands among the league.