The Golden State Warriors are entering the 2025-26 NBA season with a mix of hope and uncertainty. With superstars Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler leading the charge, the team is looking to build on last year’s performance, yet analysts are predicting they may find themselves stuck in neutral once again. As the Warriors prepare for the upcoming season, questions loom about their ability to rise above last season’s seventh-seed finish in the Western Conference.
Last season, the Warriors managed to secure a playoff spot, finishing with a 48-34 record. However, their journey came to an abrupt end in the conference semifinals, where they were eliminated by the sixth-seeded Minnesota Timberwolves. As they gear up for another season, ESPN analysts suggest that the Warriors might end up with the same record and playoff seed as last year, raising concerns about their potential stagnation.
One of the key factors contributing to this outlook is the age of the team’s core players. Stephen Curry, who will turn 38 in March, is joined by 36-year-old Jimmy Butler and 35-year-old Draymond Green. As the championship window narrows, the Warriors face the challenge of relying on aging stars who must maintain their health and performance throughout the grueling season.
Adding to the complexity of the situation is the uncertainty surrounding Jonathan Kuminga. Currently, the roster consists of only nine players, with a staggering $139.6 million—approximately 90% of the salary cap—allocated to the trio of Curry, Butler, and Green. The unresolved status of Kuminga, who is entering restricted free agency, further complicates the Warriors’ ability to strengthen their lineup.
Despite these challenges, there is a glimmer of hope for Warriors fans. ESPN remains optimistic about the potential of the Curry-Butler partnership. Last season, the duo played together in 27 games, leading the team to an impressive 22-5 record during that stretch. The chemistry they developed on the court could be a pivotal factor in the Warriors’ success this season.
However, the risk of injuries is a significant concern, especially as the players age. Analysts emphasize that if Curry, Butler, and Green can stay relatively healthy, there is a chance for a successful season. Once Kuminga’s situation is resolved, the Golden State front office can focus on enhancing the roster by potentially acquiring players like Al Horford, De’Anthony Melton, and Gary Payton II to provide much-needed depth.
As the season approaches, the Warriors’ fan base is eager to see how the team will navigate these hurdles. A seventh-place finish may not satisfy a franchise that has enjoyed a decade of dominance in the NBA. The pressure is on Curry and Butler to not only lead the team but also to inspire their teammates to elevate their game.
In conclusion, the Golden State Warriors are at a crossroads as they head into the new season. With a blend of aging stars and the promise of new talent, the team has the potential to make a significant impact in the Western Conference. However, the road ahead is fraught with challenges, and it will take a concerted effort from the entire organization to reclaim their position as one of the league’s elite teams. Fans will be closely watching as the season unfolds, hoping for a return to glory.