The Golden State Warriors began the season 4-1, with wins over the Los Angeles Lakers, Denver Nuggets, Memphis Grizzlies, and the Los Angeles Clippers. Things were looking great, and fans thought the team was on the right track. But shortly after, reality kicked in.
One of the reasons why the Golden State Warriors have had a hard time lately is their schedule. For a veteran team, the Warriors have had maybe the most back-to-back games so far this season. They’ve played four back-to-back sets, including two fully on the road. But here comes the good news. Warriors fans can take a breather. The team will have a rather easy schedule early in December. And that might be the break they need.
One Reason Warriors Fans Aren’t Mad About That NBA Cup Loss
After being eliminated from the NBA Cup, the Warriors can shift their full focus to the regular season. Right now, they are in the play-in position. Stacking some wins should be their focus right now, hoping to climb higher in the standings. That NBA Cup loss might be a blessing in disguise.
They ended their NBA Cup early. But with one of the most punishing early-season schedules behind them, they have a rather friendly December. And that can be the turning point for the Warriors.
How the Golden State Warriors’ Schedule Looks in December
Because of their elimination, the Golden State Warriors will play only two games in a 10-day span from December 8th to December 17th.
They do have a back-to-back set in the Eastern Conference, playing the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Chicago Bulls on December 6th and 7th. Then, they have four days of rest until December 12th, when they play the Minnesota Timberwolves at home. They have three days of rest before facing the Portland Trail Blazers. With two games out of the playoffs, that friendly schedule is what they need to get back on track. We have to remember, Al Horford, their big offseason signing, doesn’t play on back-to-backs due to his age.
The Warriors Need a Break Badly
Here is another reason why the Golden State Warriors will love the break in their schedule. Steph Curry left the game against the Houston Rockets with a right quad contusion. According to initial reports, he will miss a week. But with the easy schedule, the Warriors can afford to give him a bit more time to heal. After all, they are playing for the long game. Every day of rest that Curry can get is precious for his body and age.
We have to remember that the Warriors have one of the oldest teams in the league. Their three biggest stars are all 35 years or older.
The Last Word on the Warriors’ Schedule
In December, the Warriors have two back-to-back sets. But one is early in December, after which they have their long break. They will play another back-to-back at the end of the year, visiting Brooklyn and Charlotte on December 29th and 30th. But those two teams are in the lottery and should be easy games for the Warriors.
For a veteran team that needs rest as much as anyone, any break in the schedule is a godsend gift. And because of their NBA Cup loss, the Warriors will enjoy their longest break of the season.
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