Golden State Warriors: Dubs Need To Slow It Down
By Marcus Bass
The Golden State Warriors are looking like champions right now and it’s for reasons that extend far beyond their first overall rating in points per game (109.5) and second in assists per game (25.5). They’re playing some good defense too, enough to be ranked fifth in opponent points scored (93.8).
That’s the true definition of adding insult to injury — for the opposition. Although the Warriors have strong-armed their way to a 4-0 record, there’s still a few factors to consider, most importantly the Dubs’ pace of play.
They’re currently scoring 100.7 points per every 100 possessions, currently ranked first overall in pace played. With the Warriors speeding towards their big time goals, it’s necessary they learn to slow down a bit.
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Maybe it’s too early to talk NBA playoffs, but isn’t that the overall goal of every team that suits up for all 82? If the Warriors are interested in pushing further than the first round this season, they’ll need to operate with all cylinders firing, leaving no stone unturned.
Most important, anticipating a slower game in the playoffs.
It’s no question, one of the Warriors best strength is their ability to put up buckets and in rapid speed. In addition to scoring 19.5 points off turnovers a game, the W’s are lighting up the scoreboard with 24.5 fast break points at home, and 17 on the road.
They’re getting stops, turning teams over, getting out on the break and finishing with speed and authority.
Higher margins in the aforementioned stat columns are to be expected early in the season. Teams are still searching for their identity, players are learning new systems and unfortunately turnovers happen. The Warriors have been capitalizing on them for now.
In the postseason, when the pace of play is slowed down and bad habits become learned skill, the Warriors will have to depend on tough half-court defense and even better half-court offense, if they’re to claim the NBA’s ultimate prize.
It’s yet to be seen if it’s in their repertoire — for 48 minutes.
Typically, the highest paced team is the worst when play slows down. Every possession that utilizes only eight seconds of a 24-second shot clock is a bad possession in playoff basketball, and the Warriors love their quick-hit plays. In the post season it’s all about clock management, ball movement and capitalizing on each possession.
When the Warriors take their turn and dance on the NBA big stage, they’ll depend on Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson to hit the same number of shots they’re currently hitting in transition and quick offensive sets.
When the Warriors suit up for game 83, hopefully they’ll be healthy and of same importance, hopefully they’ve learned to play both ways, fast and slow. It would be a disservice and inevitable disappointment to step into the playoffs with only one speed.