The Golden State Warriors continued their impressive start to the 2024-25 NBA season with a thrilling 120-117 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday evening at the Chase Center. The win improved the Warriors’ record to 9-2, cementing their position among the league’s top teams in the early going.
The night belonged to two-time MVP Steph Curry, who delivered a masterful performance. Curry recorded 37 points, six rebounds, nine assists, one steal, and two blocks, shooting 14-of-27 from the field and 5-of-12 from beyond the arc. His relentless energy and precision shooting in crunch moments proved decisive for the Warriors.
The Warriors’ strong start to the season can also be attributed to their bench, which has been the most productive in the league. Averaging 59.6 points per game, Golden State’s reserves have provided crucial support, ensuring the team remains competitive even when Curry and the starters are resting.
This depth has allowed head coach Steve Kerr to manage rotations effectively, keeping his key players fresh while maintaining a high level of play on the court.
Despite their hot start, NBA legend Charles Barkley expressed doubts about the Warriors’ ability to sustain this level of success throughout the season. Speaking on “NBA on TNT,” Barkley pointed to their lack of size as a significant concern.
“I think they’re too small,” Barkley said. “Everybody’s fresh and feeling good right now… but as the season goes on, the bumps and bruises will add up, and I think their shooting will go down. They’re playing well right now, but I just don’t think it’s sustainable.”
Barkley’s comments add perspective, particularly given the Warriors’ struggles in recent seasons. Last year, they missed the playoffs after losing to the Sacramento Kings in the play-in tournament, marking their third playoff miss in five years.
The Warriors now turn their focus to their next matchup on Friday, when they host the Memphis Grizzlies. The game will serve as another test for a team eager to prove their doubters wrong and return to the postseason after a disappointing 2023-24 campaign.
While the Warriors’ start has inspired optimism, the long NBA season presents challenges that will test their resilience, depth, and ability to remain healthy. For now, Curry’s brilliance and the team’s bench strength have positioned them as early contenders, but the road ahead will reveal if they can maintain their momentum.
