Golden State Warriors 2024-25: Mid-Season Struggles and the Road to Redemption
As of December 29th, 2024, the Golden State Warriors hold a 16-15 record, a middling mark that places them 10th in the Western Conference standings. Their latest 109-105 win over the Phoenix Suns broke a three-game losing streak, providing a morale boost heading into the new year. Throughout the season, inconsistency has plagued the team, with big wins over contenders such as the Denver Nuggets offset by surprising losses to weaker opponents. The Warriors remain a team in transition, seeking to regain their footing as championship contenders in a league that has only grown more competitive.
Stephen Curry continues to lead the way, averaging 21.8 points and 6.5 assists per game, but his production has dipped from his peak years as he adjusts to a lighter offensive load. Andrew Wiggins has stepped up as a key contributor, averaging 18.3 points per game while providing defensive versatility against some of the league's toughest matchups. The addition of Buddy Hield in the offseason has also paid dividends, with Hield averaging 15.4 points and shooting 38% from three-point range, giving the Warriors a reliable floor spacer to complement Curry. However, Hield’s defense remains an area of concern, and better consistency on that end could make him an even greater asset.
Draymond Green, the team’s defensive anchor, has been invaluable when healthy, contributing 8.3 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game. His ability to orchestrate the offense and set the tone defensively remains crucial, but recurring suspensions and injuries have limited his availability, exposing the team’s lack of depth in the frontcourt. Kevon Looney, meanwhile, has been steady on the boards, averaging 9.5 rebounds per game, though his offensive impact remains minimal. On the other hand, Dennis Schröder has brought energy to the backcourt rotation, but his 11.1 points per game come with streaky shooting and occasional lapses in decision-making.
Defensively, the Warriors rank ninth in the league in points allowed per game with 110.5, thanks largely to Green's leadership and Looney’s rebounding efforts. However, their defensive rating of 110.6 highlights areas for improvement, particularly in transition and perimeter defense. Offensively, the team’s struggles with efficiency are evident in their league-average 112.1 offensive rating, which ranks 19th overall. Turnovers have been a consistent issue, with the Warriors ranking near the bottom of the league in that category, often giving opponents easy opportunities to capitalize.
Heading into 2025, the Warriors must focus on improving their offensive rhythm and maintaining defensive intensity if they hope to climb the standings. Hield’s integration into the team’s system could unlock new scoring opportunities, while Schröder must take better care of the basketball and improve his shot selection. Green’s availability will also be a critical factor, as his unique skill set and leadership cannot be easily replaced. Developing young players like Moses Moody and Jonathan Kuminga could also add a spark, particularly as the team seeks to build depth and versatility. The Warriors have the talent to contend, but time is running short to solidify their identity and secure a higher playoff seed. Consistency and execution will be paramount as they aim to regain their championship-caliber form in the months ahead.
