Offseason grades for Los Angeles Lakers and their West foes
By Simon Brady
Golden State Warriors: B
Yes, yes, I know. Don’t flame me. I understand the Klay Thompson Achilles tear effectively takes the Dubs right out of title contention. But when I brainstormed this piece Thompson was still in commission so I’ll keep them in the piece.
The letter grade shows that I won’t penalize a student who can’t even take the test. And as expected, Bob Myers and Joe Jacob did about as well as they could in an attempt to save the absolute disaster that is this second straight season-ending leg injury.
Adding Kelly Oubre, Kent Bazemore and Nico Mannion in the draft is about as good as it gets with what was available to fill the void at wing left by Thompson. Though it’s far from satisfying given the marksmanship from a Thompson who somehow dropped 60 in 29 minutes.
On the bright side, the Warriors didn’t outsmart themselves and overthink it draft night when news of Thompson’s injury broke.
Snagging James Wiseman, a great pick & roll partner for the greatest shooter to ever live in Steph Curry, along with an ability to run the floor, hit a mid-range jumper, and block shots, he’s a great fit to a well-oiled machine that is this Warriors system and culture.
As aforementioned the Warriors are obviously now not a real title contender in the west. But, they’re still a potential middle of the road playoff team nonetheless alongside Dallas, Phoenix, and Portland.
You can never count out one of the three greatest point guards to ever live leading a nice young crop of talent.