The Golden State Warriors roster does not look drastically different, but that’s okay when you are the defending champs. Here’s a look at the current Warriors roster and starting lineup.
C- ZaZa Pachulia, David West, JaVale McGee, Damian Jones
PF- Draymond Green, Jordan Bell, Kevon Looney, Omri Casspi, Chris Boucher (two-way)
SF- Kevin Durant, Nick Young, Andre Iguodala
SG- Klay Thompson, Patrick McCaw
PG- Steph Curry, Shaun Livingston, Quinn Cook
While several teams were looking to keep up with the Warriors, Golden State held firm. The biggest move the Warriors made over the off-season was signing Nick Young. In his first meaningful minutes with the Warriors, Young made his presence felt by scoring 23 points on opening night.
The Warriors also drafted Oregon big man Jordan Bell. Bell has a chance to be the sleeper of the 2017 NBA draft. Bell is a high-energy player who blocks shots, plays good defense and scores around the rim.
The key to the Warriors success remains Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, Kevin Durant and Draymond Green. After averaging over 30 points a game during the 2015-16 season, Curry’s numbers took a slight hit last season with the addition of Durant. Curry averaged 25.3 points, 6.6 assists, 4.5 rebounds and 1.8 steals.
Thompson averaged 22.3 points, 3.7 rebounds and shot 41 percent from the three-point line. Like Curry, Durant’s scoring numbers were slightly down last season from his time with the Thunder. Durant still averaged 25 points, 4.8 assists and 8.3 rebounds. Green averaged 10.2 points, seven assists, 7.9 rebounds and 1.4 blocks.
According to OddsShark, Golden State is a heavy favorite in Vegas to repeat as champions with -150 odds. With this much talent on the roster, only a couple things could lead to regression for Golden State. One would be implosion from within if players are no longer content sharing some of the spotlight. The other factor would be injuries.
The Warriors were able to survive a potential scare last season when Durant went down. Golden State was fortunate that Durant was able to return in time for the playoffs.
All things considered, there is a reason the Warriors are the championship favorites.
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Warriors Roster, Starting Lineup & 2017-18 Team