The Golden State Warriors blowout loss to the Los Angeles Lakers—their fifth straight—marked the worst losing streak of the Steve Kerr era. It’s probably just beginning, as well, as the club will now welcome the NBA-leading Boston Celtics to Chase Center on Friday night.
The early losing streak isn’t the only bad sign for the Warriors, as their 2-10 start is the worst since the 1999-2000 season when they finished with only 19 wins.
A five-game losing streak might not seem long by most standards, but it may not end anytime soon. Beginning with the contest against the Celtics, the road won’t get any easier.
Boston and Golden State are at opposite ends of the spectrum in many categories, as the Celtics rate first in offensive efficiency (113.8) while the Warriors rank last in defensive rating (117.2). Boston scores in the top-10 in points per game (116.1), while the Dubs allow the second-most points per game (121.1).
Looking beyond the Celtics on the schedule, the Dubs aren’t given any favors. Eight of their next 10 games are on the road. During that time, Golden State plays a blend of teams that are either young and on the rise or competing for a playoff spot.
The Warriors will face both the Utah Jazz and Miami Heat in their buildings. Both teams have eight wins to start the young season. Looking past the established teams during the next stretch Golden State will face off against a group of hungry teams lead by young talent.
D’Angelo Russell and Jordan Poole will tangle with Luka Doncic, Trae Young and Ja Morant on the upcoming road trip. If you were power ranking the next breed of NBA stars, the aforementioned group would be at the top of the list. It’s not crazy to believe each youngster will try to show out with Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson watching.
The positive when looking forward is the Warriors do get a shot against the struggling New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday to start their road trip. One of the two wins the Dubs have is against the Pels, who are also depleted from injury.
It’ll be interesting to see where the Warriors stand after the next 11-games.
They’ll be challenged in every contest, but a pair of road trips stacked together could be the thing this young team needs to build chemistry.
