Golden State Warriors 5 keys to series vs. Spurs

After a season marred by drama and injury, how do the Golden State Warriors get back on track and win their first round series of the 2018 NBA Playoffs?

The Golden State Warriors entered the season as defending champions and massive favorites to once again win the title. As the season ends and the 2018 NBA Playoffs begin, the combination of the Warriors stumbling and the Rockets surging means they are no longer the clear favorites.

Two-time MVP Stephen Curry will almost certainly miss the entire first round recovering from a Grade 2 MCL strain, which means the rest of the roster will have to step up. After closing the season on a 7-10 skid, there are clearly issues that need to be addressed.

Even with the chaos of injuries and drama, the Warriors are still equipped with three All-Stars in Kevin Durant, Draymond Green and Klay Thompson. They have one of the league’s best bench players in Andre Iguodala. Steve Kerr and his coaching staff have proven their excellence over the past three seasons.

However, with San Antonio looming as their first round opponent, the Warriors will have their work cut out for them just to win their first series. Will Curry’s absence cause irreparable damage, or can Golden State come together and assert their will on San Antonio? Here are five keys to the series.