Golden State Warriors 2021 Preview
The Golden State Warriors dealt with many injuries last season, Stephen Curry missed some time with a wrist injury, and Klay Thompson missed the season with a torn ACL. Curry is back healthy, but Thompson will miss the season again due to an Achilles injury. Draymond is back and looking to rebound from a horrible season last year. It will be up to Curry and Green for the Warriors to be successful.
Key Additions: Kelly Oubre, James Wiseman, Kent Bazemore, and Brad Wanamaker
With Thompson out, the Warriors acquired forward Kelly Oubre; he is coming off an outstanding season where he averaged 18.7 points per game with the Phoenix Suns. Oubre will be counted on to score and play tough defense for Golden State.
In the draft, the Warriors drafted James Wiseman, who could be a big piece to the team. Wiseman can space the floor, score off the dribble and in the post. He is also a capable rim protector. If Wiseman picks the NBA game fast, the Warriors could surprise some people. The Warriors also added forward Kent Bazemore and PG Brad Wanamaker to provide some much-needed depth.
Key Losses: Dragan Bender and Klay Thompson
Warriors did not re-sign Dragan Bender, but the most significant loss this season is Thompson being out.
Starting Five: Stephen Curry, Kelly Oubre, Andrew Wiggins, Draymond Green, James Wiseman
Curry will need to score a lot a be able to get his teammates involved. We know what Curry brings to the table. Oubre is on the rise and could bring some nice scoring punch to the Warriors lineup. He is a contract year so expect him to play well.
Andrew Wiggins is super talented, but he needs to put it all together this year. The Warriors are counting on him to play a more significant role this year. Green will need to continue to play defense but must improve his outside shot to help the Warriors’ offense. Wiseman will start at the five and should be able to provide immediate impact.
Outlook
The loss of Thompson hurts the Warriors; you know what Curry will bring to the table. But it will be up to the other players to play well for Golden State to have a decent season. Their bench is young and will need to make an impact to help the scoring load. The Warriors will have to lean on defense if they want any shot to make the playoffs.
