Warriors Insider Believes Lackluster Start Is Meaningless

The Golden State Warriors are 5-4 after an up-and-down start to the season. They started the season 4-1, including signature wins over the Los Angeles Lakers, Denver Nuggets, and Los Angeles Clippers. Then they slipped up a bit, losing back-to-back winnable games against the Indiana Pacers and Milwaukee Bucks. They now sit at around .500, in the middle of the pack of the heated Western Conference playoff race. 

After their hot start everyone seemed to be jumping on the “Warriors are true contenders” wagon, but many fell off as a result of their next few disappointing games. So, what is it? Are the Warriors true contenders or just another solid team that will be fighting to stay out of the Play-In Tournament?

Warriors’ insider Nick Friedell shared his beliefs on the Warriors’ funky start to the year. 

"I would give caution to anybody that thinks the sky is falling, this schedule is brutal, and I know people hear that, and they roll their eyes... I'm telling you, these guys are still human beings. This schedule, as long as I've been in the league, covering things for about two decades, is the worst I've ever seen to start the year." 

Friedell believes that the Warriors' record doesn’t necessarily reflect their championship aspirations. Their tough schedule to start the year makes it difficult to have a real idea of just how good this team is. 

However, their tough schedule to start things off could either help or hurt them. On the one hand, they are going through tests and battles now that should better prepare them for the season. On the other hand, if they can’t find a way to separate themselves from the rest of the West, they could be in an uphill battle for seeding.