Golden State Warriors: 3 things to watch for in the second half

The Golden State Warriors had an up-and-down first half of the NBA season. From opening-week blowout losses to incredible comeback victories, from Stephen Curry offensive explosions to a Kelly Oubre Jr. ice-cold streak, this team has zigged and zagged from week to week.

Not until the last two weeks before the All-Star Break did the Warriors win three games in a row, and they promptly followed it with their first three-game losing streak of the year. Some games they have prioritized winning, and others they have seemingly prioritized developing their young players, chief among them rookie center James Wiseman.

With 37 of the season’s 72 games under their belt, the Warriors hit the break at 19-18, roughly tied for 9th in the standings. A week before they were in fifth. The packed Western Conference standings mean every game matters. Yet for a team not expecting to contend for a title this season, what are their priorities?

What to watch for in the second half of the season for the Golden State Warriors

The Warriors have to give some run to their young players over the second half of the season. James Wiseman elevates their ceiling, whether through his own play or as a trade piece to acquire a star. Eric Paschall, Jordan Poole and Mychal Mulder need to earn a roster spot. Kelly Oubre Jr. needs to earn a contract.

On the other side of the coin, Stephen Curry and Draymond Green are not getting any younger. The Warriors probably shouldn’t waste another year of their prime seeking evaluations on players who will never be as good as them. Especially not when ownership is paying an enormous tax bill for this team. How the team navigates the two priorities is the theme of the second half of the season.

With that in mind, here are three things to watch for in the second half of the season for the Warriors.