The Golden State Warriors face their ultimate playoff run

The 2023-24 NBA regular season featured two different faces of the same Golden State Warriors team. The Dubs had to go through all kinds of difficult situations inside and outside the basketball court which resulted in them falling to the 10th spot, having to go through the whole play-in tournament as visitors in order to earn a spot in the upcoming playoffs.

Golden State's has had a wild ride up to this point, and while they've been healthy for the most part of the season, they couldn't live up to the hype. They are the team with the highest payroll and yet they've still struggled to secure that 10th spot.

Read also

Eastern Conference shifts: the aftermath of the final game

As the Lakers, the Warriors are a team filled with championship experience. The core of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green and Klay Thompson are the last pieces of a formidable NBA Dynasty that ruled the league for several years, winning 4 rings. Steph, at 36, continues to be a monster, finishing the season averaging 26.4 points, shooting nearly 41% from three. He's on his way to win the Clutch Player of the Year, so there's no question with him. He will deliver. Klay and Draymond need to have a good play-in tournament. They've been improving as the team progressed and started winning consistantly after the All-star break.

Andrew Wiggins is crucial for Golden State. He dominated two years ago as he was one of the bests two-way players during that championship run. He's been improving his performances as well. They have exciting role players such as Jonathan Kuminga, Kevon Looney and the defensive specialist Gary Payton II.

Read also

The Western Conference landscape following regular season's end: A breakdown

They'll meet the Kings in a win or go home play-in matchup in the city of Sacramento. If they survive, they'll be facing the loser of the Lakers-Pelicans matchup in another knockout match. Overcoming this scenario will take them to the first round of the playoffs to play against the top team in the Western Conference, Oklahoma City Thunder.

A sudden end of the road for the Warriors could mean the end of an era, as for sure Golden State's front office will have to do some changes in the roster to adjust the franchise finances and ensure a better outcome for the years to come. However, the Warriors are a very dangerous team, especially against a young squad like OKC.