Photo: Jose Carlos Fajardo/Bay Area News Group

The Golden State Warriors are steamrolling this season with the second-best record so far amongst 30 teams in the league. After failing to reach the postseason in 2020 and 2021, Steph Curry and co. are determined to construct another championship foundation in this decade.

Even without shooting phenom Klay Thompson and 2020 No. 2 pick James Wiseman, the Warriors remain superb on their output while showing that toughness, coordination, and harmony. And once they are finally healthy, Matt Barnes truly likes their chances this season.

“A championship.”

Joining the Dubs Talk Podcast recently, the former Warrior and current NBA analyst suggested that while the Dubs are strong contenders, they have to handle Thompson and Wiseman’s situation carefully for a fully-loaded squad moving forward.

“I think their key is acclimating Klay back and seeing where he is at, with a long two-year layoff,” Barnes said. “I think Wiseman will come back and fit in, and just figure out what his role will be will be important, but like I said he’s someone that rim runs, blocks shots, has a 15-footer, he’s someone that can help control that paint.”

Golden State announced earlier this month that Thompson and Wiseman were assigned to G League affiliate Santa Cruz Warriors for conditioning their way to the much-anticipated return. As the two are currently preparing, initial MVP favorite Curry and Defensive Player of the Year candidate Draymond Green are properly navigating the ball club with the help of talented youngsters and trusted veterans. 

While Barnes has mentioned the Phoenix Suns, Utah Jazz, and the Los Angeles Lakers as the strongest threats, he still puts his faith in the Dubs to win it all once completed. 

“If the Warriors get healthy, in my opinion, they are the best team in basketball.”