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Golden State Warriors 2026-27 Preview: Schedule, Win Predictions, and Key Insights

The new NBA season kicks off, bringing fresh hopes and challenges for the Golden State Warriors. Their 2025-26 campaign ended with a 37-45 record, placing them 10th in the Western Conference and falling short in the play-in tournament against the Suns.

Offseason Moves

  • Draft Picks: Yaxel Lendeborg (11th overall), Lajae Jones (54th overall)
  • Key Signings and Extensions: Kristaps Porziņģis (two-year, $40 million extension), Al Horford (re-signed for two years, $14 million), De Anthony Melton (re-signed for two years, $11 million), Draymond Green (re-signed for one year, $27.7 million), Gary Payton II (re-signed for one year, $3.9 million), Georges Niang (one year, $3.9 million)
  • Notable Departures: Pat Spencer (signed with Suns), Trayce Jackson-Davis (traded to Raptors), Quinten Post (signed with Grizzlies)

Roster and Rankings

The preseason power rankings place Golden State at number 22. The addition of Yaxel Lendeborg, who impressed during the NBA Summer League with his scoring ability, playmaking, and off-ball movement, brings an intriguing dynamic to Steve Kerr’s offense. His MVP-worthy performance in Las Vegas has set high expectations for how he'll mesh alongside Stephen Curry.

Concerns and Challenges

Questions remain about how long the Warriors can rely on Curry to carry the team at age 38, especially given the injury risks and age-related concerns surrounding key veterans. Draymond Green is 36, Al Horford is 40, and Porziņģis's health remains uncertain. Injuries could further impact the squad as Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody might miss significant time, with no assurance of returning at full strength. Despite aiming to maximize Curry’s remaining prime years, the Warriors seem to be treading water without a clear path forward.

Preseason Impressions

Yaxel Lendeborg has made a noticeable impact every time he’s played. His aggressive drives and confident three-point shooting, whether catch-and-shoot or off the dribble, bring a fresh element to the offense. His hustle plays, like diving for loose balls, show a commitment that can't be taught. Defensive consistency will be key to his growth, which could elevate the team's competitiveness.

The Warriors blend the skill of Curry with Draymond’s defensive presence but need to evolve their approach to find regular-season success and secure a playoff spot.

Fantasy Basketball Insights

  • Brandin Podziemski’s preseason usage rate is up to 28% after two games, signaling a breakout opportunity.
  • With limited backcourt reinforcements beyond Brandon Williams, the latter has a chance to shine.
  • Al Horford is expected to come off the bench, enhancing the fantasy appeal of Gui Santos and Yaxel Lendeborg in deeper leagues.

2026-27 Schedule Highlights

  • Season opener on October 21 at the Lakers
  • Home game against the Grizzlies on October 23
  • Road matchup versus the Suns on October 24

Betting and Win Projections

  • Projected win total: 39.5
  • Odds to win the division: +375
  • Odds to win the NBA Finals: +6600

Potential Outcomes

  • Best Case: If Curry stays healthy, he remains All-NBA caliber, and Draymond continues to defend well, the team could grab enough wins to enter the play-in tournament. The return of Butler and Porziņģis by then would make the Warriors more formidable than their seeding suggests.
  • Worst Case: Age and injuries catch up, leading to another season where they miss the postseason entirely, stuck outside the play-in picture.

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