The Golden State Warriors have showcased an unexpected resurgence as they approach the playoffs, boasting 14 wins and just three losses since mid-February. This upturn coincided with a high-profile trade, sending Andrew Wiggins to the Miami Heat in exchange for Jimmy Butler. Despite Butler's struggles with shooting, his defensive impact has transformed the Warriors into one of the top defensive teams, posting a significant improvement in net rating when he's on the court. Meanwhile, Steph Curry remains a focal point of the offense, handling a larger load than ever, although concerns linger about his health and longevity at age 37.

This season has seen the aging core of the Warriors, including Draymond Green and Curry, attempt to bridge the gap to a younger generation, aided by promising contributions from players like Jonathan Kuminga and Gui Santos. The team's success hinges not only on Curry's performance but also on finding consistent scoring options beyond him. As the playoffs near, the Warriors must leverage Butler's defensive prowess and Curry's offensive brilliance to reclaim their championship status, even as the specter of past struggles looms large.