Why Perk and Myers believe the Warriors are ‘legitimate’ title contenders originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area
Kendrick Perkins believes the Warriors can compete for an NBA title this season.
The 14-year NBA veteran turned ESPN pundit praised Golden State on Friday’s edition of “NBA Countdown.”
“The Warriors have been playing in the West like Kendrick Lamar’s new album,” Perkins said. “When it comes to what they’ve been doing. I’ve been watching this team since the preseason and they have a certain type of look. They have a certain kind of synergy about themselves. They defend at a high level with Draymond Green anchoring that defense. They are number one in perimeter defense.
“I think the Warriors are legit title contenders, but I need to meet Bob (Myers), do you think they’re legit?”
Bob Myers, former Golden State general manager and architect of the Warriors dynasty, echoed Perkins in declaring the team’s potential to win the NBA championship.
“I think they’re going to win it every year, Perk,” Myers, now an ESPN analyst, explained jokingly. “No (I think so) at the beginning of the season. They sure seemed that way, why not? Here’s why I would say why not. I am surprised that the West has not seemed as strong as before. In 2022, I remember when I was there, I was talking to Mike Dunleavy and he said, “This is our opportunity because there is no dominant team.”
“We can talk about a team that I mentioned as my favorite for the Finals in the West, that is Oklahoma City (Thunder). I still think it will be difficult to get around them, but that is the only team. That is the only one that I see as an obstacle for the Warriors right now.”
With an 11-3 record entering Friday, Golden State has been one of the surprises to start the NBA season. Between vintage steph curry and a deep bench that can score at will, the Warriors appear to be contenders again in the Western Conference.
The additions of Buddy Hield, Kyle Anderson and Lindy Aguas III along with the development of some younger players have awarded to Steve Kerr with one of the most versatile groups he has coached.
With most of the Western Conference contenders failing to start the season, the Warriors have taken full advantage and are currently tied for first place.
If this trend continues for the rest of the season, Myers and Perkins won’t be surprised if Golden State makes it to another NBA Finals.
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