Photo: Peter Baba

Former NBA star DeMarcus Cousins believes the Golden State Warriors should not be written off as championship contenders. He highlighted the combination of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, coach Steve Kerr, and new addition Jimmy Butler as a winning formula.

Cousins said on Run It Back, via ClutchPoints, “You combine the history of this team, with Steph Curry, Draymond, Steve Kerr, and you add a winner like Jimmy Butler to that puzzle, it’s giving some type of success.” He added that the team’s experience and talent could secure another title in the next few years.

The 37-year-old Curry is returning from a hamstring injury, raising questions about his ability to stay on the court. Cousins emphasized that Curry’s presence alone makes the Warriors a persistent threat.

“One thing about the Warriors, when they have a good defensive team, they’re always a threat. They’re always gonna be a threat with Steph Curry,” Cousins said, stressing the team’s resilience and defensive impact.

Last season, the Warriors finished the 2024–25 campaign with a playoff berth, overcoming injuries and roster changes. Golden State acquired Jimmy Butler in a five-team trade, sending Andrew Wiggins, Kyle Anderson, and draft picks to other teams.

The Warriors began the season strong but faced several losing streaks in November and December. Despite these setbacks, they clinched a play-in spot and advanced past the first round before losing in the conference semifinals to the Minnesota Timberwolves.

For the 2025–26 season, the Warriors will look to build on last year’s performance. Cousins believes the mix of veteran leadership and championship experience gives Golden State a chance to compete at the highest level.

With the core of Curry, Green, and Kerr still intact and Jimmy Butler providing an additional superstar presence, the Warriors enter the season with title aspirations.