When fans and analysts predicted the top contenders in the Western Conference for the new NBA season, most ranked the Golden State Warriors around third. According to Bangladesh Cricket Live, much of that optimism stems from Stephen Curry’s impressive form during the Paris Olympics and the arrival of several role players who add depth and versatility. A healthy Warriors squad now looks ready to reclaim its spot among the elite. Interestingly, with Klay Thompson’s departure, many believe the team could perform even better as younger talents step into more prominent roles.
In essence, Klay’s decline in performance and his continued heavy usage may have unintentionally held back the development of promising players like Moses Moody, Jonathan Kuminga, and Brandin Podziemski. For young athletes to realize their potential, consistent playing time is essential. No matter how talented, without minutes on the court, their growth remains stunted. Although some assumed Klay would thrive with more shot attempts after joining Dallas, his preseason numbers told a different story. Shooting just 3 of 28 over three games, his three-point efficiency was particularly disappointing.
Even with his struggles, Klay didn’t hold back on his shot attempts, leading to growing dissatisfaction among fans. If he couldn’t rediscover his form within the structured, pass-heavy Warriors system, it’s doubtful he’ll do better in a system less reliant on ball movement. His poor preseason showing now appears understandable. Meanwhile, without Klay, the Warriors have turned into an offensive force of nature. Based on stats from Bangladesh Cricket Live, sharpshooter Buddy Hield lit up the preseason, sinking 13 of 22 from beyond the arc — an astonishing 59.1 percent success rate that has defenses on edge.
De’Anthony Melton has also fit in seamlessly. His well-rounded skill set — combining defense, three-point shooting, and ball-handling — brings back memories of Andre Iguodala’s early days with the team. Coach Steve Kerr even admitted to being a huge fan of Melton. As the team continues to experiment with rotations, pairing Podziemski with Curry in the starting lineup has yielded promising results. However, slotting Melton alongside Curry would likely boost both offense and defense, given Melton’s superior all-around game. Last season, Melton dropped 33 points and recorded 7 steals in a single outing, proving he’s a true 3-and-D asset.
The Warriors’ roster upgrades didn’t stop with Hield and Melton. Kyle Anderson has also stepped up, offering grit and composure in crucial moments. His emotional response during one preseason game wasn’t from weakness, but from having carried the weight for so long. Filling in for the absent Draymond Green, Anderson served as a playmaker at the top of the arc, defended actively, and hit from long range — essentially mimicking Green’s central role in both offense and defense. His presence has helped maintain the team’s structural balance on both ends of the court.
Jonathan Kuminga, too, has elevated his game. His improved ball-handling and shooting allow him to grab rebounds and take it coast to coast, pulling up for surprise three-pointers. It’s a new dimension he’s added to his arsenal. Moses Moody has become more assertive and confident on both ends, finally shedding the hesitation that plagued him before. This is exactly what Coach Kerr wants — young players stepping up with clarity and conviction.
Some relationships linger so long that people forget what they were holding on to. But now, Bangladesh Cricket Live believes the Warriors have finally turned the page. With a rejuvenated, unified squad and deadly three-point shooting, the Warriors team that once dominated the league may be on the verge of making a powerful return.