Why the Warriors are so much better

[@ThinkingBasketball]

Full version for Members is here kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZvLeWdjnMtkiqs and features: -Changes in the offensive philosophy (delay, paired cuts) -Multiple initiators / shooters (egalitarian offense, 2nd side actions)

[@joshsc560]

next their blowout today vs the cavs

[@rockysalvatore7352]

@@joshsc560 he won't

[@dobz746]

What I saw is a good number of illegal screens not being called on the Warriors smh

[@rockysalvatore7352]

@@dobz746 yep. Always ignores it or casually glosses by. Like it doesn't help Steph or Buddy at all

[@nigelee]

This is the team/system Buddy has been waiting for his whole career. As many shots as he likes, so he buys into the system on both ends.

[@kedrprao]

He got a ton of open looks in Sacramento as well but bumassss Buddy missed it. Dude couldnt defend anyone and was a trash ball handler. He suddenly became elite

[@Scoots1994]

@@kedrprao But those open looks often came from other players driving and 2 man games while he stood in the corner. His game was a lot more static. Now he's moving a lot, and the ball is in his hands more. I'm surprised at things he's doing because we haven't really seen him be asked to do it before. That said, he's still probably going to regress, but still could be the best year he's had.

[@rockysalvatore7352]

​@@kedrpraoexcept he's always been a more prolific shooter than Steph

[@animegopher]

​@@kedrpraoHe didn’t just out of nowhere become elite. Lmao. That's not how it works. He didn’t buy into the system. He didn’t respect the coaching. The system didn’t fit for him. Also, it's not really about whether or not he was getting open looks... It's about him getting the full green light, and plays being drawn for him to score. That's huge. When you get to touch the ball more, whether it be shooting or to set someone else up, that keeps you more involved as a player. It matters. In SAC, it was just "stand in the corner, wait for the pass." Not a great way to keep players engage.

[@joelmiiro6349]

@@rockysalvatore7352 Buddy has never been more prolific than Steph. Steph has always made more 3's, and always at a higher percentage.

[@nolannguyen2]

The 12 man rotation allows for higher intensity on defense and it’ll also keeps Steph more fresh throughout the season

[@calebburt180]

Older teams like bucks, Lakers and Sun's need to adopt a similar approach

[@rockysalvatore7352]

​@@calebburt180older teams don't have Steph front office lol. It is what it is. Bucks not winning Lakers only worse than GS and Dallas

[@rockysalvatore7352]

And all these curry fans get mad when I point it out lol. Prime GS was tough bc they grinded you down w athletic wings and depth. Steph played 0d so he was 100 on offense. No start got to do that and be covered up. Green Iggy klay bogut protected him. Then Payton wigs green Porter. I wish every star switched places w him so his fans can see what privilege looks like

[@rockysalvatore7352]

This is why I always said GS was scariest team in 22 as well. As soon as they get 3d elite guys curry becomes a superstar and top 5 on offense in league. They always had deepest teams. Coaches like Malone and Kidd are dumb. Even though your rosters aren't close let other guys play at 100 so your stars/starters can too. And Steph fans were mad about JK last year but now they see Kerr was right. Everyone that downplays depth on GS is dumb bc they were always strength in numbers not curry we trust. They need switchable defense and athletic 3d guys and curry w another elite shooter and a big who can play w him and green. It's a lot but a nightmare when comes together. Only GS could fo could do that

[@ElComendante1928]

It allows for higher intensity on defense because Warriors have a bunch of very good defender - like top tier Draymond and very good Wiggins, Moody {who work on defense this year with KD and Ried}, Podziemski - natural defense talent, on-ball defender = Melton, GP2, Waters2 and getting better day-by-day Trayce, Kuminga. Looney always was rebound machine. They have experienced players like Draymond, Wiggins who knows Warriors system and young, hungry wolfs like Trayce, Kuminga, Moody, Podziemski. They are long on wings and they are fast as hell with rotation whole game.

[@nikoadventures]

Idk if the warriors are the real deal this year but it’s still fun to watch them help out players like Buddy and donte become better versions of themselves when they arrive at golden state

[@xavierb9061]

Horrible playoff team when teams scout and have strategy. Reg season when not taken serious have a chance to be great.

[@dre32pitt]

@@xavierb9061 Yea.. they said that in 22 as well... This team is actually better than that one.. it's MUCH deeper.. and Buddy is a far better fit than post-injury Klay ever was (because Buddy can move laterally.. Klay cant anymore)

[@dre32pitt]

@@xavierb9061 I hear what you're saying, but..... celtics?? who brought up the celtics? we're talking WARRIORS.. get it right lol.. 'Full team'.. lol, we'll see if Tingus Pingus can keep it together for another season.. But yes, Boston is better.. but so is this warrior team (comparing both to their respective 22 teams).. who you going to bring up now? the cavs?? lol

[@heythereimkevin]

@@xavierb9061 nobody mentioned the celts though lol

[@undertakerblaise256]

@@xavierb9061yo what’s the point of bringing up the Celtics if the topic is GS? Obviously the Cs are great, they’re the defending champions lol. But like the other comment said, they doubted them in 2022. So keep doubting them. If ya don’t want 2022 to happen again, teams BETTER take ‘em serious or else Steph getting his 5th ring

[@jw3638]

Thanks for pointing out Buddy's effort on defense. The Dubs defensive effort this year has been nice to see.

[@tamasoda3924]

That stat about big rotations and short minutes reminds me of the 2014 Spurs

[@rockysalvatore7352]

They could never match the Spurs. They never got past the older versions of them. Those Spurs were actually clean and didn't injure or set moving screens. They were never media darlings or marketed heavily by the league

[@i_like_math_but_cant_do_math]

kerr got alot of insperation from popovich. This winning formula needs to be used more!

[@Darknight1024]

​@@rockysalvatore7352 bro calm down it's not that serious 😂

[@savonsanders8684]

​@@rockysalvatore7352They're the Spurs but on steroids. More assists. Their team defense is just as good as the Spurs was, plus GS has had better perimeter defenders. Prime Klay, Iggy, Barnes, Green, GP2, KD, Wiggins, Kuminga, Melton and Kyle. Porter was a solid defender too in that 2022 run too. GS with young Steph up under Mark Jackson gave those 2013 Spurs trouble without D. Lee, who was injured. Green was just in his rookie year and Klay was in his 2nd 💯. Steph was getting busy on y'all without Lee GS 2nd option next to Steph. Lee was also an All-star too. Steph injured his ankle that series and yet, GS pushed the Spurs to 6 games smh. Y'all be having amnesia. GS changed the whole landscape bro and teams have been imitating them since 2020 dude. The Spurs didn't have Steph as their system or an mastermind defensive anchor like Green. With them 2 guys at their best GS has the most well balanced team in NBA history. Green can guard 1-5 and play point forward. Steph can be dominant with and without the ball and be a traditional PG or combo guard. Creating 4v3 in the half court sets. 3>2 dawg and nobody's done that better than peak Steph and Klay. We're seeing something magical with Steph and Heild. Steph ain't even popped off yet rt 😂

[@davaunghhouck4039]

My first thought exactly, now I will actually tune in to a game . My favorite brand of basketball

[@dre32pitt]

Buddy getting the cleanest looks of his life.. Kerr moving JK to the 2nd unit is a good move as well (JK and Steph on the floor at the same time has never worked.. JK plays his best when steph is actually sitting/out injured.. so 2nd unit makes sense).. Some people (bballbreakdown) think Kerr should move Buddy into the starting lineup.. I think he'll keep him on the 2nd unit (creates spacing for Kuminga to bully people on the block), but continue to close halves/games, a la Iggy (just comparing the minutes, not the players).. The only way I see Buddy moving to the starters is if Melt or Waters starns garnering the level of attention that Buddy does.. And Buddy has WAY MORE off the bounce juice than I thought.. That's something Klay never really had (he needed a screen/running start to get past most folks off the bounce.. Buddy is actually breaking people down solo and getting to the cup).. Buddy can also move his feet better than Klay at this point.. Another reason why Klay became sort of a ball stopper last year.. hunting his own shot (trying to get paid), but also because he cant run off screens all day like before.. In DAL he just needs to provide spacing and let Luka/Ky feed him... And Wiggs is back (losing your father suddenly will derail anyone, idc who you are)!! Looks focused and is rebounding like he did in the 22 playoffs.. taking ppl off the bounce and playing lockdown defense..This team is dangerous Edit: And shout out to Terry Stotts (former blazers long time HC)! He helped Kerr install this updated version of his original 14-15 offense (he's kind of the offensive coordinator.. much like Alvin Gentry was back in the day).. Im sure he's loving being 'behind the looking glass' now, lol.. Probably still gets ptsd watching Steph though.. has to remember they're on the same team now lol..

[@rockysalvatore7352]

Curry fans will tell you he makes everything work tho lol. Imagine not being able to name a talent like JK work lol. Then they'll act like curry made Thompson and wigs and Iggy Shaun too

[@rockysalvatore7352]

It wasn't Steph that hurt him. It was KANTER and injured NURK LMAO. Swap them for green and bogut and they beat GS with what we saw already. That's impressive considering how much more talent GS would still have

[@rockysalvatore7352]

Buddy and Kyle saved this team. They're the key. Buddy can start but he needs to still be w second. Podz can carry bench too. This team is insane but we know only curry will get credit. Never the insane guys around him

[@dre32pitt]

@@rockysalvatore7352 system fit matters.. JK is too good to trade at this point (he's literally learning th game still).. JK NEEDS the ball to be effective, like most iso scorers who can't shoot reliably.. So separating him and Steph makes it work.. Watch more Thinking Basketball and learn more.. And why are you brining up Kanter, who might be the worst defender the world has ever seen, and Nurk?? Yes, Buddy, SloMo, Melt, and Waters are all great pick-ups.. That money they were gonna give Klay is paying THESE guys instead.. MUCH MUCH better.. But for real.. you talk like you know your stuff, but your words betray you.. watch and learn.. then post.

[@Pyps0403]

​@@rockysalvatore7352 Lmao three different responses with three different types lf curry hate, truly a generetional hater

[@leptonparticle238]

Steve Kerr is genius and needs more credit for the GSW dynasty. This man is a genius. The way he comes up with new style of effective basketball is amazing.

[@dre32pitt]

the only ppl who dont give him credit, dont know hoops.. Plain and simple lol.. It does help you identify the casual fans though.

[@danewirostek1903]

He made needed coaching changes this year that have been great but last few years he let the team flounder and didnt have a solutions ​@@dre32pitt

[@back2back379]

The guy had the seal of approval from both Popovich and Phil Jackson from the jump for a reason. The guy knows basketball and how to coach it, plain and simple.

[@dre32pitt]

@@back2back379 Forgot D'Antoni.. he has elements of '7 seconds or less' in his offense as well (transition).. ppl forget he was the GM for those Suns teams that featured Nash.. There's even some triangle elements as well (his time in CHI)..

[@Charleston_Chew]

the only hole in Kerr's coaching is that he's doesnt develop talent, steph, dray, klay, KD, iggy, etc all were talented and reached potential through his system, so did wiggins, but he doesn't develop younger players to reach their potential, weismann, kuminga, etc

[@westcoast9285]

3:13 if you watch Buddy on catch and shoot 3s, his knees are spring board bent while he’s catching the pass from Curry. Dudes just the best fit for this style offense with his shooting mechanics

[@JuanYe_West]

As a Warriors fan, I have been wanting Buddy on this team for YEARS. He is the perfect fit for the Warriors style. Super fast release and off-ball movement is just what the team needed.

[@myweirdsecondchannelwithap9070]

I can't believe we actually got him, such a steal

[@docmalice]

Hield is a flamethrower! That warriors offense really unlocked him

[@JazzyJ5G]

Buddy has a great mentor in Steph and the offensive system, with Terry Stotts tweaks, seems to be perfect for him and his skillset.

[@dre32pitt]

YES! Coach Stotts can't be overlooked.. He's like in the land of Oz I bet.. Still gets PTSD watching steph, then remembers they're on the same team now lol

[@JazzyJ5G]

@@dre32pitt That he is (Stotts)! 😂

[@jooooooeee]

Credit to big brain Dunleavy on letting Klay go, getting Hield, Stackhouse and Stotts. If we shock the league and get back to the shampionship, Dunleavy's gonna look like a genius and we can say "light years" again.

[@MattStevens9824]

And we did that without sacrificing the team's future. Imagine if that Lauri deal happened.

[@rockysalvatore7352]

​@@MattStevens9824GS fans don't know ball. Steph cry babies.

[@rockysalvatore7352]

Stotts yes. Stack no

[@AmardeepKiro-m6c]

​@@rockysalvatore7352but the Stat says it all you hater crybaby 😂

[@dre32pitt]

100% MDJ has been great.. shrewd moves that have netted immediate results.. Getting Melt, Waters, Buddy, AND SloMo for what we were gonna pay Klay is a masterstroke (pause)

[@gilless429]

Really great vid ! I saw their record, and I saw Hield playing really well, but this analysis makes it clearer what some of the ways they're making this happen are ! Par for the course for this channel.

[@supune]

I actually think that after they tanked for 2 years, the Warriors reverted to playing more of a Harden-Houston style offense with a lot of burden on Steph in iso and Steph and Dray in two-man DHO & PnR actions. This year, I think they've gone back to being more organized and running more 5 man synched sets where there's movement to bring the low defensive man's eyes and feet out of postion with a basket dive. Strength in numbers is back with a deeper more organized rotation. Kerr had a big brain drain of assistants leaving and I think they added Stackhouse and had some Euroleague experienced coaches come to the front of the bench. Also I think they are much more organized transitioning from offense to defense and back again. They have again put a priority on having a 2nd unit that can outscore the other teams bench in sustained bursts. They really only added Buddy and Slomo after losing Klay and their defense is much more improved. I think having GP2 healthy is big for them. He and BP (when he is back healthy) have good instincts to help with rebounds and cause loose balls. But with their tiny big men and even tiny-er line ups, I have no idea how they are defending and rebounding on the road so much better than last year.

[@pugsnhogz]

Yup, great comment. How are they defending and rebounding on the road so much better? I think you nailed it man, it's that top-to-bottom team energy, just 5 dudes hustling hard every play, harassing every pass/dribble/loose ball. Goes a long way. When teams stand around on offense they end up standing around on defense, no matter how you try to scheme it it's just a thing.

[@supune]

@@pugsnhogz There's a funny meme making fun of Bellicheck after Randy Moss left where they could have drafted very good, fast wide receivers but he just say "too fast, no. too fast, pass. too fast, I don't want him" and I imagined Steve Kerr doing that to every big man since they let JaVale McGee go and failed to develop Wiseman. Steve Ker: "Too tall... no. Too tall, not for me. Too tall, pass..." Because there was many chances to even get big men from Europe that know how to pass and shoot, but he's just been really into playing the micro ball lineups trying to find another line up of death. But I think there wasn't enough players like Iggy they could find to play that style until they let one of the big 3 contracts go. I still think they need a big man that can pass as well as be able to make defensive rotations because, although Dray can still make pretty good rotations, his motor doesn't really rev at an elite level any more. I thought they would have found another Bam by now, but I guess there's really on one of him right now. So they have to make the illegal but not illegal defense work until they can find rim protector who can also pass.

[@thebluemeeple]

Yes, great additions to the coaching staff. Dunleavy and Kerr added Terry Stotts as the lead assistant coach. I'm sure he has his fingerprints on the offense. Stackhouse has been a huge boon for the defense and bringing a lot of accountability to this group according to Draymond. Having a top tier defense will take this team far.

[@JamesBrown-xk5tw]

that style was best for wins. that team sucked and if they played 5 out especially with ball hogs like oubre and eric steph wouldve never gotten the ball. it was better they played DHO dray + steph at the 32 foot line

[@josephtrophy3729]

Dont know what is more impresive, your knowledge or your editing skills. This videos are amazing..

[@mosessupposes2571]

Agreed. It’s great to watch a sports show that’s actually about the sport instead of oversized overhyped drama queens screeching at each other.

[@josephtrophy3729]

I'm a construction worker from Croatia. Give me a break

[@robertlivingstone442]

As much as I love Klay I think he was a drag on the team last year, letting his ego get in the way of the team, making a lot of mistakes. So far Buddy seems like an upgrade from the current Klay.

[@DEVILONBOTHSHOULDERS]

klay has also looked rejuvenated in dallas, i think its less of an ego thing and more of the opposite, his confidence was shattered in the 23-24 season mf was out there like old lightning mcqueen he needed a change of scenery

[@Velveteenvision]

Yep and now he’s dragging down my team, the Mavs. They have gotten worse since he joined.

[@Velveteenvision]

@@DEVILONBOTHSHOULDERShe might look rejuvenated but the team is worse now. Lacking defense and they’re so slow this year. The offense is clunky too. He misses a lot of shots too and when he does he looks upset.

[@dre32pitt]

@@DEVILONBOTHSHOULDERS Klay cant move like he used to.. that was the problem in GS.. it's a movement offense.. he's doing better now because he can just spot up and provide spacing while being an outlet vale for ky/luka drives.. Yes ,they'll still run pin downs occasionally, but it's not gonna be like GS where he's running 5 miles a game (his legs cant take it anymore).. So last year, he would kinda hold the ball more I noticed. Try and work his man for a shot, which has NEVER been his game.. He was pressing last year too, trying to prove a point and get paid.. It backfired, lol.. But this is probably better for both him and GS..

[@Thekidisalright]

I love Klay but his body language after he missed a shot is very demoralizing to the team, and I am glad to see him do well in Dallas

[@Piripiao_YT]

*Another day, another Thinking Basketball video 🔥*

[@Cc3430-cj3ye]

This channels is gold, improving my basketball knowledge everytime, almost everytime i felt like i can coach a basketball team after watching their video😂

[@pushslice]

While buddy will always be at his core a deadeye shooter, this new offense he finds himself in seems to allow him to show off just his pretty amazing natural athleticism as well. He’s taking cues from the master, SC30, on how to use his speed and hustle to reposition and sneak into slots, even if closer to the basket…

[@dunmatta2670]

They really took strength in numbers to a new level. I'm stoked for this team and hopefully they can stay hungry.

[@lawbinson]

Love watching Buddy in this system. Also Gradey on the Raps

[@brohan24]

had worries about buddy’s defense when he got signed, but he proved me wrong. dude looks locked in defensively and he runs the floor like a maniac. what a pickup.

[@johncraig4820]

Buddy plays so fast. He was the secret to in season Pacers pace. Sixers just never understood how to use him. But oh, the defense.

[@dephy11]

Hope you make a video on the Cavs 9-0 start. Like what are the differences from this year's team from the past two seasons or what changes have you noticed that could've contributed to the hot start.

[@blueconversechucks]

I love how the Cavs are playing. I hope they can keep it up all year and challenge for the Eastern title.

[@chedbeckford8067]

I'm just happy we don't suck anymore. Even if we don't win anything this is such a fun team to watch

[@mars2b]

Waking up to a video from Thinking Basketball, today's going to be a good day!

[@jeroenverweij7856]

So awesome to see you’re back on YT after the off-season. Amazing videos, great analysis and very fun to watch!

[@KuyaGDee]

5th ring for Curry 🔥🔥🔥

[@Kingcometrim]

That would be so comp

[@linhtinh5505]

thatd be hilarious, im rooting for him though

[@rockysalvatore7352]

Getting carried by depth again

[@coryhanfield1196]

@@rockysalvatore7352😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@lokey9780]

@@rockysalvatore7352”carried by depth again” every championship team has depth brothrr

[@SDfighter1]

We're getting our ass beat 😢

[@davincislive]

I’m glad i wasn’t tripping, after watching the warrior’s first few games i was there thinking “since when is buddy’s shot this quick?”

[@dre32pitt]

Wiggins is the key.. He wasn't focused the last 2 years (father got sick and passed suddenly), but now he looks like the guy in the 22 playoffs that was clearly their second best player (he'll be that again this year because he's a genuine 2-way player).. Combine the re-emergence of '2-Way Wiggs' and picking up a Splash Buddy.. Steph and Draymond have the pieces they need.. All the playing time the kids got the last 2 seasons (Podz, Moody, JK, TJD), is going to serve them well this year.. And they can still pull the trigger on a 'big' trade, if they feel the need to with the assets they have (JK being hte biggest one).. if MIL continues to struggle.. dont be surprised if you see a 'Wiggins/Kuminga/TJD+picks' deal for Giannis (who's said he'd LOVE to play with steph).. They'd still have decent depth and he scariest PnR combo yet lol... How would you defend that? If you blitz Steph, he'll just hit Giannis on the role and now he's playing 4 on 3, DOWNHILL.. And you can't overplay Giannis' role either.. that would leave Steph wide open for a 3... Virtually unguardable

[@cringelevelunlocked7418]

but at the same time they will be taking a huge risk on injury prone player, I don't think they will be going with that trade even though it makes sense as it would add ht and a rim protector who is also an offensive beast, but let's see

[@dre32pitt]

@@cringelevelunlocked7418 Yea.. i give it a 15% chance that it happens, but, on paper, it makes sense.. especially if they can't see eye to eye with Kuminga on an extension.. might as well parlay him into some thing amazing.. They could probably get Markkinen for less capital and arguably, he'd be a better fit since he's a stretch big.. keeps draymond at the 4, which is ideal for him in today's league.. Probably have to give up Kuminga and Wiggs.. or Kuminga, Moody, TJD, and 1 more low salary piece.. But I do agree that standing pat with what they got is the best move.. They've got depth and can absorb even Curry being out for a stretch or two..

[@nbapbaupdate8338]

12 Man- ROTATION super INSANE NOW 💯

[@stephenwu1524]

and then 12 hours later they're down 78-38 to the cavs before half time

[@benjaminbaumgardner7620]

Wild to see buddy in a system that works for him.hard to believe he can actually play defense

[@gregrizzo8054]

Lazy on defense will get you a seat on the bench immediately on a Kerr team, and with 12 men wanting your minutes you have no choice but to ball out on D.

[@Tha4704]

I can’t afford the membership but I appreciate what you bring to KZbin. Great vid I rewinded it so much, I wish it was a lil longer😅

[@frednukes]

Buddy has been a diamond in the rough for so many years, and now he is flourishing!

[@digdug1577]

What a fun brand of basketball to watch, and stoked for my hometown Warriors to be able to have another run left in them! They really look like their having fun out there with good chemistry (which like the OKC Thunder) makes it that much more enjoyable to watch.

[@kdutta9]

The evolution of the Warriors is awesome. We've seen so many versions of this team

[@egglordsasuke8532]

The entire team is moving and most can actually shoot. Hield and Curry both have crazy range and are in range as soon as they are past half court. For the last few years it has basically everyone standing around while Curry ran around and hoped to get open for a sliver of time. Now the entire team is a threat. Great to see them play this basketball. Sucks Klay isn't there, but Hield himself is a historically great shooter with a quick release and limitless range.

[@gregrizzo8054]

I miss Klay as well, but he's like 9th or 10th man in this rotation.

[@egglordsasuke8532]

@gregrizzo8054 No arguments from me. The depth is crazy.

[@tormentor91]

"aggressively slinging" is such a perfect description of what Hield is doing this year and I love it. I genuinely think the coaching staff gave him the Curry green light, aka "The only bad shot is a shot not taken." Even if his percentages drop to more realistic numbers he's sure to be a frontrunner for sixth man of the year.

[@theunderdawgfilms]

Excellent breakdown. I’m curious what your thoughts are on TJD and Draymond… I feel like TJD is almost having a start like Lively did last year with Dallas, and as far as Draymond goes I feel like his defense has been an anchor to start the year as well!

[@ryanshea6859]

The opening of this video is a clinic on how to use moving screens and not let them get called lmao

[@gregrizzo8054]

Too funny, that's exactly what I noticed as well. It appears the league office has decided to stop calling them now. Unless they are obvious.

[@ThinkingBasketball]

I almost had a segment on the "gluteal screen"

[@ryanshea6859]

@@ThinkingBasketball That would have been amazing 😂😂

[@PaulSmith-zb1nm]

As you say, the speed with which Hield gets his shots off is remarkable.

[@almightysosa3007]

It’s wild to think that Hield is already top 20 all time in 3s made. He’s about to surpass dirk…. That’s insane to me. It doesn’t feel like he’s been in the league that long.

[@dochidesu]

these next few games will be a test to see how good this new squad really is. Best team in the east in the Cavs, arguably the best team in the west in OKC, and the reigning west champs and Klay's new home in the Mavs. Not to mention Memphis is looking to make a resurgence this season so you can't count them out as well.

[@blueconversechucks]

After their great preseason, I was really optimistic. my litmus test to see if it was for real, was that they could start 5 and 2 at least, against a relatively easy first 7. They checked that box, going 6 and 1. after that I thought if they can go 500 against elite teams like they have in this stretch, That would show that they are capable against the elite. You can't get more elite than finals champions, undefeated Cavs, winners of the Western conference last year regular season and postseason in OKC and Dallas. They've already clinched 2-2 and they'll try to go 3 and 1. To me all that's left is holding a top spot in the West for a quarter of the season. Be within 3-4 games of first place. That will show that they are contenders. Then it's a matter of sustaining It the full season in the playoffs. West is an absolute Shark tank again this season it's going to be Wild seeing how it plays out.

[@trustypatches5244]

As a spurs fan, I’m so jealous of other teams actually running sets and having a sense of identity that I don’t see with the spurs this season

[@GoliathGTX]

Spurs is still finding their identity. I yhink they will find it within the next 2-3 years.

[@brokeindio5072]

San Antonio “Pass it to Wemby” Spurs But it works because lol

[@salutcava2262]

Why would you be jealous? The spur are in the middle of a rebuild they aren't trying to compete right now, you guys just grabbed a player who is shaping up to be a generational talent and you have all the picks to add great pieces around him.

[@noct1x657]

Warriors have the big challenge of playing the undefeated Cavs and the 7-1 Thunder next (and they also just defeated the 7-1 Celtics last game). If they win these next two or at least keep it close, I definitely see them having a shot at the title.

[@gregrizzo8054]

They need to go 2-2 at a minimum in the next 4, and I agree, keep the losses close games.

[@donaldpriola1807]

His shot always reminded me of Drazen Petrovic. That fast release is hard to deal with--glad he's getting some good press; he's always been a weirdly maligned player.

[@blueconversechucks]

He's so good and people want him to be steph. so he gets maligned basically for not being steph. Another reason he's the perfect splash buddy.

[@Homer-OJ-Simpson]

Ben, I Listen to your podcast and I’ve never heard you discuss how players impact or stats per minute or possession has been going up for years as the players play fewer possessions/ minutes which allow them to use more energy per possession. On the extreme other end, look at 60’s players that played 100 possessions a game or more. They had to take many possessions off while in the court which hurts their per possession metrics. And 1990’s vs even 2015 has the same effect. Would be interesting if you spend some time discussing that impact in your podcast (unless I missed it?)

[@leebutz4727]

The Splash Buddys

[@99BullD]

The Cavs just beat them by a lot but they had by far the better 2nd half but they were playing catchup from that 1st half masterpiece by the Cavs.

[@blueconversechucks]

Cavs are really really good. They also hammered the warriors last season. They are a bad matchup for the warriors. That is a loss in the standings, but its not a black eye for the Ws.

[@easternautumnleaf]

Thinking Basketball is back! 🔥🔥🔥

[@miirkaan]

It's a great day to be a Thinking Basketball fan

[@MoonDanceGames]

Buddy was a STAR at Oklahoma, I always thought he had this type of production in him. The warriors are such a good fit for him

[@eriksports]

Looney’s got the warriors moving screen technique down as well, can’t be understated.

[@Chenrandyliu]

I’m happy for buddy, he has always been a shooter now he thrives in a system that’s perfect for him

[@potats5916]

not the warriors nose diving off a cliff immediately afterwards:

[@elkayteevee7680]

I remember years ago when the Kings traded for Buddy, I think this is the version that the GM foresaw at that time. I might be tripping but I think the GM made specific comments about Buddy being likened to Steph. Years later here we are. Goes to show important the implementation of these kinds of systems are to allow for players to flourish. Hope this continues, this is some amazing basketball.

[@PLs379]

Been waiting for a warriors breakdown thank you bro

[@chief6541]

Buddy Hield is an all-star this year no question.

[@myweirdsecondchannelwithap9070]

Not in this west he isn't

[@t4d0W]

Slow your horses kemosabe. He's coming off the bench and he can't sustain scoring nearly 20ppg beyond a 9 game sample.

[@x-Musashi-x]

This 12 man rotation is great, gives good amount recovery for all players, gives bench players time to develop, gives Steph less load of his shoulders, allows the team to set consistent pacing with the intensity.

[@visno]

back in 2020 when the warriors got the number 2 pick i really really really wanted them to trade for both buddy hield and myles turner. buddy’s playstyle always struck me as perfect for the warriors, and he could have filled in as that second shooter while klay was rehabbing, and even better when klay returned i imagined ridiculous 3 guard lineups that included a stretch big. the kings could have gotten the number 2 pick and the pacers would have got the pick that became kuminga and wiggins.

[@giom3248]

It's christmas already? 2 vids ina row sir, a blessing

[@Noticingg]

kerr really one of the goats

[@rockysalvatore7352]

Don't let curry fans hear you. They've been blaming him past 2 years. That man even kept forcing ball to Steph in Olympics while it was purposely hurting the team😂😂. Curry had it all set on a table for him and his fans still cry

[@frecklenuckle4450]

@@rockysalvatore7352 where's this salt coming from bud lol no one even mentioned curry

[@PrincePJ07]

​@@frecklenuckle4450 dont mind him he mentions Steph in every comment lol

[@Hooch_is_crzy]

@@rockysalvatore7352 are you kidding? this is the worst analysis of what was happening in the olympics ive ever seen... lebron was the problem in the olympics, the literally had to take him off the ball and give it to curry or they were going to lose, that man turned into a turnover machine.

[@iitzblitxen3770]

@@Hooch_is_crzyboth curry and lebron were 2 of the best players for us in the olympics, followed by AD/KD

[@joelithic]

I remember when Buddy Hield was drafted and his player comparison was Ray Allen. I’m glad he didn’t become a bust b/c he was struggling in his first couple of years.

[@Jeffrey-k1w]

WITHIN 20 seconds

[@muzokhonazulu4202]

great video as always, i just love GPll man👌🏾👏🏾🔥

[@JMaiRealEstateGuy]

2:49 this play is wild. So many options.

[@blueconversechucks]

Ws bandwagon fans said they needed to get Paul George or Lauri Markannen. Current combined record of their teams: 4-14. At 8-2, Ws are 8 games ahead of that record after ten games played.

[@rockysalvatore7352]

@@blueconversechucks curry fan ignoring injuries and help lol. Typical

[@rockysalvatore7352]

@@blueconversechucks Steph stans said that. Don't lie. They're entitled to stacked rosters every time bc he always had that. It was his fans begging for unreal trades lol as always

[@Jeremy-ot6pb]

buddy hield has been what they wanted klay thompson to be at this stage of his career.

[@mikkelkrath200]

I really enjoy the content. Is every video from now on gonna be a short incomplete version for non members? Every KZbin channel have patreon and also membership these days its impossible to keep up with the pay wall on all of them sadly.

[@jancraigdespabeladero5969]

Hey bro, time to make that video about the Cavs bro.

[@efenili]

If the players are as excited to play as we've been to watch this new team, its understandable why things are clicking. I'm not into make bold predictions but I am really happy as a fan to see what the Warriors are doing, they are super fun to watch.

[@ShaneDuenas-mr6zy]

I’ve been wondering where you were I need this content

[@jaytierney]

Fantastic analysis, as always.

[@Yinyotic]

9 dollar for membership is a little to much and is sad because your videos are amazingly good 😢

[@versatillion15]

That action at 4:14 was 🔥🔥🔥

[@smellslikeproductions]

Random but Portland Blazers got the best broadcast graphics ever 0:22

[@kobenaarthurjr.3201]

😂 it is clean!

[@astrologyambience240]

Great work, thank you TB

[@GerardGamesGG]

Great video! Subbed

[@ChibiMalzahar]

2:08 boston still isn't stepping up on screens I see lol

[@justinpridham7919]

Smart breakdown, good job

[@issumagi3333]

The fast release is very sought after I feel like Tatum clearly wants that so he’s changed his shot to be faster

[@rationalcommentor]

I've been waiting days for this guy to analyze

[@opinionsmatter-xx4go]

Thinking basketball is back!

[@wl7291]

Walton really looked at Fox and Hield and said “let’s slow these dudes down”

[@singapore_de]

I know shit abt bball tactics but you make this so understandable and interesting

[@GanjaDaddi_]

Buddy footwork is ELITE

[@bennypoo]

Dont sleep on Slowmo as an addition for this team. I am a Twolves fan and really sad to see him go this offseason. He is a very solid fundamental player. Doesn't stuff the stat sheet but does a lot of little things that contribute to winning. I hope he has success on the Warriors, it seems like a good fit. High IQ player.

[@shotaomori6246]

Everyone needs to be motivated and buy into the system. That starts with culture and the leaders of this team setting a good example. For steph, dray, Looney, and gp2, you know you are getting great work ethic and everyone else falls in line.

[@trajaiscool]

anymore here after cavs

[@javigar133]

I wish I could see all this happening when I watch the Game, and I played for a long time

[@Aih1616]

12 man rotation and if they could keep healthy till playoff…this could change basketball

[@TheBlackKakashi]

They getting blown out by 40 right now

[@Baphomian]

i love this soundtrack on your videos...

[@bad_metaphor]

That Cleveland game though...

[@Shoveltime198]

The amount of moving screens in this video is appalling.

[@tray3483]

kerr is finally using his depth and the young guys have delivered so the team is pretty much stacked now. having buddy replace klay who honestly was terrible last season and a liability with his below avg defense/inconsistent shot has been night and day. warriors should clinch a playoff spot this season and avoid the play in finally, wouldn't surprise me if they do make a late trade as well to get more depth in the front court.

[@BluntFrankTrauma]

You just can’t wait to talk about the warriors every year like clock work