Warriors' disappearance in Celtics loss could lead to organizational shifts, as mentioned by Steve Kerr
The 2022-23 Golden State Warriors season has been marked by inconsistency, a stark contrast to their dynastic run in recent years. The team, led by Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, has yet to find a stretch where they can confidently claim they have figured it out.
The primary issues plaguing the Warriors this season include a lack of a consistent third scorer, insufficient frontcourt size, and inefficiencies in both offensive and defensive play. These factors have contributed to the team's struggles, particularly in crucial playoff games.
In an effort to address these issues, the Warriors are considering various strategies. They are expected to be active in the free agency and trade markets to bolster their frontcourt and add a reliable scorer. However, they must navigate salary cap complexities due to large contracts for Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Green.
The team is also demonstrating patience, aiming to preserve chemistry and financial flexibility while making strategic improvements. Maintaining the core lineup, which performed exceptionally well post-All-Star break, is a priority. There are also rumours of potential acquisitions of established stars to bolster their title aspirations.
Despite their struggles, the Warriors can take solace in the fact that their core group knows how to get it done. This group of players has been together and has had great success in the past. Steve Kerr, the team's coach, expressed confidence in the team's ability to get through the NBA season.
However, the Warriors are still searching for an identity this season. Their record midway through the season stands at 22-23, following a close loss to the Boston Celtics 121-118. Their third quarters, once a strength during their dynastic run, seem off this season.
The Celtics, who lost 6 games the rest of the regular season and made it to the NBA Finals, serve as a potential model for the Warriors. After a loss to the Atlanta Hawks on Jan. 28, the Celtics started a nine-game winning streak.
Steve Kerr has shown a willingness to make changes, as evidenced by his decision to start Jordan Poole instead of Kevon Looney against the Celtics. The Warriors are aiming to follow a similar path as the Celtics, having won 15 of their last 20 games before the play-in tournament.
Draymond Green has emphasised the need for a sense of urgency but lamented that the team isn't playing that way. Steve Kerr acknowledged the team's current .500 record and stated that they are trying something different.
As the season progresses, the Warriors will continue to work towards finding the right balance and consistency to regain their championship form.
The Warriors are aiming to add a reliable scorer and bolster their frontcourt in the free agency and trade markets, as these areas have been problematic for them. However, they must carefully navigate salary cap issues related to Curry, Butler, and Green's contracts.
The Celtics, despite starting the season with six losses and facing a close loss against the Warriors midway through, managed to turn their season around by demonstrating a sense of urgency and winning nine consecutive games. The Warriors, currently struggling with their record, can learn from the Celtics' determination to improve and find their own identity.
