Aspects the Golden State Warriors Must Work on for the 2025/26 NBA Season

For the Golden State Warriors, the 2025 preseason is not about accumulating wins in exhibition games. In just two weeks, Steve Kerr must evaluate the new recruits, adjust the rotation, and, above all, define Jonathan Kuminga's role. With the arrivals of De’Anthony Melton and Al Horford, Kerr's whiteboard has more pieces than ever, but also more questions to address before the official start of the season.

The addition of Melton and Horford offers Golden State the opportunity to experiment with variations that were not previously available. Melton, a defensive and versatile guard, naturally complements Stephen Curry thanks to his ability to steal the ball and bring intensity without needing to be an offensive focal point.

He is familiar with the system from his brief stint last season, although the torn ACL kept him out for most of the year. He won't be available for the start, but his return is expected to be crucial in improving the perimeter defense that struggled so much in 2024/25.

On the other hand, Horford arrives with the experience of five All-Star appearances and a recent championship in 2024. His presence as a stretch center reinforces both the interior game and the veteran leadership of a team that has historically surrounded itself with experience to remain competitive. Kerr can use the preseason to see how his profile fits with the energy of the youngsters and the dynamics of the historical core.

Jonathan Kuminga's Examination

After months of frustration due to injuries, limited minutes, and tense contract negotiations, Kuminga and the Warriors ended their stalemate with a new agreement for two years and 48.5 million dollars. Now comes the real test: proving if he can assume a larger role in the rotation.

The preseason will be his testing ground. With a more crowded roster, Kuminga must convince Kerr that he can be more than just an explosive sixth man: is he ready to establish himself as a starter and accompany Curry, Butler, and company? His ability to score consistently and maintain his athletic impact will determine whether he remains a supporting player or becomes an indisputable star.

The good news for Golden State is that they already have a strong foundation. With Jimmy Butler's arrival at the last deadline, the team closed out the regular season with a 23-7 record and showed clear signs of their championship DNA. The Playoff elimination against Minnesota is largely attributed to Curry's absence rather than structural flaws.

Therefore, Kerr doesn't need to reinvent the wheel. The priority will be to integrate the reinforcements in a balanced way, give confidence to Kuminga, and maintain the chemistry that drove the team in the final stretch of the last season. If successful, the Warriors could have the necessary pieces on the table to contend for their eighth championship in the modern era.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Los aspectos que deben trabajar los Golden State Warriors de cara a la temporada NBA 2025/26