In an interview at the Warriors' practice facility in Oakland, Calif., last season, coach Steve Kerr _ as usual _ shot straight.
"We know how this league works," he said then, reclining in a chair. "We're in a sweet spot right now where we have a chance. It's our time.
"At some point in the next few years _ we'll see how long _ our window is going to close as far as this current iteration of the team. We have to take advantage."
Talent-laden team or not, it's hard to win an NBA championship. Kerr has done so five times as a player _ including three with the Bulls _ and three times as a coach. As well as anyone, he knows talent isn't the only ingredient. Teams need health, unselfish play and some luck.
Assuming the first element for the Warriors, don't look for the championship window to close in 2018-19. That answers the first of the five biggest questions heading into this season, which tips off Tuesday with a 76ers-Celtics and Thunder-Warriors doubleheader.
Let the games begin.
