The Golden State Warriors: The Best of 2014-15, 2015-16, or 2016-17

The question of which Golden State Warriors team from the 2014-15, 2015-16, and 2016-17 seasons was the best is a topic that often sparks heated debate among NBA fans. However, it's a no-brainer when considering the 2016-17 season. Let's delve into the details and discuss why this particular squad is considered the finest of these three years.

The 2016-17 Season: The Kevin Durant Era

The 2016-17 Golden State Warriors were the standout team in this comparison, primarily due to the addition of Kevin Durant. Durant's arrival added a new level of explosiveness and scoring ability to the team that had already established themselves as one of the greatest in NBA history. This era saw the Warriors reach new heights, showcasing their incredible depth and relentless pursuit of excellence.

2017 NBA Playoffs

One of the most compelling performances by the 2016-17 Warriors came during the 2017 NBA playoffs. Starting from the opening rounds, the Warriors swept through the competition, winning their first 15 games before facing a formidable opponent in the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Cavaliers managed to cause a minor upset by winning one game, but only after shooting an unprecedented 24 three-pointers in a single game. Despite this, the Warriors showed their dominance by finishing the series 16-1, including their record-breaking 15-0 start to the playoffs.

User Speculation Yes, But Stay Factual

While some users might suggest that teams such as the 1986 Boston Celtics, featuring four Hall of Famers in their primes, could have posed a strong challenge, it's important to stay factual. The 1986 Celtics were indeed a dominant team, but they faced a newer generation of athletes and a significantly different league landscape. The 2016-17 Warriors not only had the strategy and depth to compete but also the addition of Durant, who at that time was one of the most versatile and efficient players in the NBA. He complemented the exceptional talents of Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson perfectly, creating an unbeatable combination in the 2017 season.

Why the 2016-17 Season Stands Out

The 2016-17 season under the guidance of Coach Steve Kerr and the leadership of Curry, Thompson, Durant, and Draymond Green marked a pinnacle in the careers of these players. They not only showcased individual brilliance but also a collective synergy that few teams have matched. The Warriors' success was built on teamwork, strategic play, and a relentless focus on improving their skills and tactics. This combination of factors, along with the addition of Durant, made the 2016-17 season a benchmark for modern basketball.

Conclusion

Given the overwhelming evidence of their performance and the unique talents of the 2016-17 team, it is clear that this squad stands out as the best among the three seasons in question. The addition of Kevin Durant not only enhanced their already formidable offense but also solidified their defense and deep bench. The 2017 NBA playoffs, with its 16-1 postseason run, further cemented the legacy of this unforgettable team.

Related Keywords

Golden State Warriors

NBA playoffs

Kevin Durant