I can’t help but feel we’ve reached a critical juncture. Despite having worse or equal records in previous seasons, there’s a palpable sense that we’ve hit a boiling point. The same issues keep resurfacing, and as Curry himself put it, it’s “mid.”
The question on everyone’s mind is: When will things change, and how?
Let’s face it - this team, as currently constructed, isn’t built to win an NBA championship. Joe Lacob’s offseason goal of another title seems increasingly out of reach. With limited trade chips and assets, it’s hard to envision a path back to true contention without some creative maneuvering.
So where do we go from here? How can the Warriors get better immediately?
One intriguing option that keeps coming up in discussions is Zion Williamson. At just 24 years old, Zion offers a tantalizing blend of otherworldly athleticism and polished skills that could potentially mesh with Curry’s remaining prime years. When healthy, he’s a consistent 25-6-5 threat who finishes at an elite level around the rim.
The concerns about Zion’s durability are valid. However, the Warriors’ award-winning training staff has a strong track record of keeping stars like Curry and Green on the court. Perhaps they could work similar magic with Zion.
Acquiring Zion would likely require parting with significant assets - possibly Andrew Wiggins and/or Jonathan Kuminga. It’s a high-risk, high-reward proposition that could either propel the Warriors back into title contention or backfire spectacularly.
But at this point, don’t the Warriors need to swing for the fences? Curry is a generational talent, and the franchise owes it to him to maximize these final years of his prime. Marginal moves for players like Nikola Vucevic or John Collins simply won’t move the needle enough.
As painful as it is to admit, the current iteration of “Warriors basketball” feels broken. It may be time to reimagine what this team can be. Adding a dynamic force like Zion could usher in an exciting new era, even if it means departing from some staples of the system.
The coming weeks will be crucial. Will the Warriors settle for tinkering around the edges, or will they make the bold move needed to truly compete for another title? One thing is certain - the status quo is no longer acceptable. It’s time for change in the Bay Area.
