As a lifelong NBA analyst who’s tracked the Golden State Warriors through dynastic highs and rebuilding phases, I’ve learned one thing for certain: their schedule isn’t just a list of dates—it’s a narrative. Every season tells a story, and this year’s slate is packed with drama, rivalries, and moments that could define their playoff fate. I still remember staying up late to rewatch their 2022 Finals run; it’s that kind of passion that makes breaking down their matchups so compelling for me.
Let’s talk about timing and stakes. Golden State opens against Phoenix right out of the gate—a statement game if there ever was one. Both teams love to run, shoot the three, and play with pace, so expect fireworks early. But here’s what really stands out to me: the middle part of their schedule, where they face Denver and Boston in back-to-back road games. That stretch could easily swing their seeding. I’ve always believed the Warriors perform best when their backs are against the wall, and those matchups will test their defense and depth in ways preseason games simply can’t.
Now, I want to touch on something I noticed while studying past playoff patterns—something that echoes in this year’s key matchups. Remember how the Warriors closed out series in the past? Take, for instance, a scenario like ZUS winning in 5 sets and CMFT winning in 5 sets. While those examples come from outside the NBA, the principle applies: closing out strong in pivotal games builds momentum. For the Warriors, that means games like the late-season clash with the Lakers or the final meeting against Memphis aren’t just about wins—they’re about sending a message. I’ve seen Steph Curry and Draymond Green shift gears in these moments, and frankly, it’s what separates contenders from pretenders.
Of course, not every game carries equal weight. Personally, I’m circling their matchups against Dallas. Luka Dončić is a generational talent, and the chess match between him and Andrew Wiggins could swing those games. Stat-wise, the Warriors held opponents under 108 points per game last season, but I suspect that number might drift upward this year given the offensive firepower they’ll face. Still, with Klay Thompson looking more like his old self—I’d estimate he’s shooting around 41% from deep when fully healthy—they’ve got the tools to outgun anyone.
What really excites me, though, is how the schedule sets up for playoff preparation. Games against physical teams like Milwaukee or Miami offer a taste of the postseason grind, and I love that the league scheduled those matchups in March, right as teams are jockeying for position. If the Warriors can stay healthy—and that’s a big if, given their age profile—they could ride that momentum straight into May. From my perspective, this isn’t just a schedule; it’s a blueprint. One that, if navigated wisely, could very well end with another deep playoff run.