7 Harsh realities of the Golden State Warriors offseason
By Cal Durrett
Harsh Reality #5: Golden State’s two-timelines approach is over.
Prior to the start of last season, the Warriors were attempting a two-timelines approach that would allow them to compete in both the short and long term. However, after trading former number two overall pick James Wiseman for Gary Payton II and dealing Poole for Paul, it’s clear that that is no longer the game plan.
While the Warriors decision to change their course of action may say more about those particular players, it doesn’t change the fact that Golden State got older. Replacing two players in their early twenties with two players in their 30s inevitably pushes the team closer towards aging out of title contention.
Worse yet, although Wiseman and Poole probably weren’t the players to bridge this version of the Warriors to a new era, it does mean that they will likely need to do a full rebuild sooner rather than later. It could ultimately prove to be worth it if it means that Payton and Paul contribute to Golden State making it back to the NBA Finals. Still, it gives them fewer chances to win their fifth championship.