The sun seems to have set on the Golden State Warriors‘ dynasty. Not only did the Warriors get routed by the Sacramento Kings in a play-in game this past NBA season, but they watched Klay Thompson—one half of the Splash Brothers—sign with the Dallas Mavericks in free agency.
So, do the Warriors have anything left in the tank for one more run with Stephen Curry?
Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley doesn’t seem to think the odds of Golden State contending in its current form are all too great (news flash) and thinks that the Warriors’ front office must tirelessly pursue a second star to put alongside of Curry for next season.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Golden State Warriors Updates
Golden State tried to land LeBron James, Paul George and Lauri Markkanen this summer and failed with each effort. James was probably never all that realistic, George had his sights set on Philadelphia all along and the Utah Jazz were almost certainly never moving Markkanen (they ended up extending him).
The Golden State Warriors aren’t the Warriors anymore
It also stands to reason that the Dubs simply are not an appealing destination for star players any longer.
Yes, the Warriors are just three seasons removed from an NBA championship, but you know what? Three years is a long time, as evidenced by the massive decline of Thompson.
Draymond Green did experience a bit of a resurgence last year, particularly in terms of his three-point shooting. However, it also marked just the second time since 2015 that he didn’t make an All-Defensive team, and his inability to stay on the floor—whether it be due to injuries or suspensions—is obviously hurtful.
The Warriors are banking on massive improvements from youngsters like Brandin Podziemski, Jonathan Kuminga and Trayce Jackson-Davis. It’s an impressive trio, but it’s not exactly a major lure for star players aiming to win a ring.
Right now, the only proven and reliable commodity in the Bay Area is Curry, who just put forth a legendary performance at the Olympics to tell the world he’s still got it.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Golden State Warriors Updates
But Curry is 36 years old. His window is not going to be open for much longer, and his lack of an elite supporting cast is not exactly a crowd-pleaser.
Perhaps general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. has a trick up his sleeve heading into next season, but as of right now, it’s hard to view the Golden State Warriors as more than anything but a fringe playoff team.
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