The Golden State Warriors have entered the realm of NBA history with their unprecedented 3-point shooting streak. The team has now made at least 20 three-pointers in consecutive games for the first time, a feat that even past dynasties couldn't match during their prime.
Coach Steve Kerr attributes this surge to home-court advantage, allowing his players to focus on their game without the fatigue of traveling. However, it's clear that multiple factors are at play here. For starters, veteran players like De'Anthony Melton and Al Horford have rounded into form, providing a much-needed boost to an already deep roster. Melton has become a threat as a driver, often forcing defenses to collapse, which opens up opportunities for open shots on the perimeter.
Horford, meanwhile, has found his rhythm after missing time with sciatica, not just making 3-pointers but also serving as a threat to create space for other teammates. His presence alone creates openings that are hard to defend against.
The Warriors' bench has been a key component of this success, scoring at least 60 points in eight different games and boasting the third-highest bench scoring average in the league. Players like Brandin Podziemski have emerged as reliable shooters from off-the-ball roles, complementing Curry's incredible shooting ability.
The Warriors have also successfully exploited gimmick defenses by drawing attention to their most potent shooter, Steph Curry. The Hornets' plan of sending multiple defenders at Curry was an attempt to slow him down but ultimately backfired as he continued to find open shots with ease. Meanwhile, Draymond Green tormented the defense with wide-open 3-point attempts, scoring 4 of 8 from beyond the arc.
Finally, shooting variance has also played a significant role in their recent success. As Kerr often points out, it's a "make-or-miss" league, where teams need to be able to hit shots consistently to win games. The Warriors have been at the top of the league for both 3-point attempts and makes for most of the year, but their recent surge is a testament to their ability to overcome any shooting drought.
While it's hard to sustain this level of shooting proficiency indefinitely, the Warriors' offense has shown that they can dominate shootouts with anyone. This recent streak will undoubtedly serve as a warning to opponents, who should be prepared for the possibility of facing a team that can outshoot them from anywhere on the court.
Coach Steve Kerr attributes this surge to home-court advantage, allowing his players to focus on their game without the fatigue of traveling. However, it's clear that multiple factors are at play here. For starters, veteran players like De'Anthony Melton and Al Horford have rounded into form, providing a much-needed boost to an already deep roster. Melton has become a threat as a driver, often forcing defenses to collapse, which opens up opportunities for open shots on the perimeter.
Horford, meanwhile, has found his rhythm after missing time with sciatica, not just making 3-pointers but also serving as a threat to create space for other teammates. His presence alone creates openings that are hard to defend against.
The Warriors' bench has been a key component of this success, scoring at least 60 points in eight different games and boasting the third-highest bench scoring average in the league. Players like Brandin Podziemski have emerged as reliable shooters from off-the-ball roles, complementing Curry's incredible shooting ability.
The Warriors have also successfully exploited gimmick defenses by drawing attention to their most potent shooter, Steph Curry. The Hornets' plan of sending multiple defenders at Curry was an attempt to slow him down but ultimately backfired as he continued to find open shots with ease. Meanwhile, Draymond Green tormented the defense with wide-open 3-point attempts, scoring 4 of 8 from beyond the arc.
Finally, shooting variance has also played a significant role in their recent success. As Kerr often points out, it's a "make-or-miss" league, where teams need to be able to hit shots consistently to win games. The Warriors have been at the top of the league for both 3-point attempts and makes for most of the year, but their recent surge is a testament to their ability to overcome any shooting drought.
While it's hard to sustain this level of shooting proficiency indefinitely, the Warriors' offense has shown that they can dominate shootouts with anyone. This recent streak will undoubtedly serve as a warning to opponents, who should be prepared for the possibility of facing a team that can outshoot them from anywhere on the court.