It’s a crushing week for Dub Nation, after two blowout losses against the Denver Nuggets and the Oklahoma City Thunder. Steph Curry did return to the floor on Wednesday against OKC, but the greatest shooter of all time went cold, and the whole Golden State Warriors just couldn’t keep up with either the reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the 7-foot-1 big man Chet Holmgren. This isn’t just a wake-up call for the Warriors; it’s a sad realization that they’re in an extremely tough spot right now to be in the super stacked Western Conference.
OKC Annihilates the Aging Warriors Team Without Their Second-Best Player
Many thought it would be an exciting battle between two of the most exceptional players of this generation, however, the reigning champs just cruised through the aging Warriors team, even with Curry returning from injury.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander put up 28 points and 11 assists in three quarters, while the Dubs just couldn’t find an answer for Chet Holmgren, who had a perfect night, shooting 9-for-9 from the field and recording a 23-point, 11-rebound double-double. Despite Jaylen Williams’ absence due to an eye injury. Overall, it was a smooth-flowing offense for the home team, and by the end of the third quarter, the Thunder had already led by 35 points, 107-72.
On the other hand, the Warriors looked out of sync. Steph Curry wasn’t making his shots thanks and was only limited to 11 points, thanks to OKC’s emphatic perimeter defense. To be fair, being crushed by the reigning champions isn’t entirely new, but for a former dynasty that wants to win it all this season being blown out easily like this is truly devastating for the fans.
Even Draymond Green Isn’t So Sure of the Warriors’ Title Hopes Anymore
Golden State started the 2025-2026 season strong by beating the Los Angeles Lakers, the Denver Nuggets, and the Los Angeles Clippers in opening week. However, things took a nosedive after Curry was rested due to knee and ankle issues right after recording multiple high-scoring games.
The whole franchise was ecstatic, especially when they acquired Jimmy Butler in the latter part of the 2024-2025 season. Although they fell short, the team looked promising. As someone who’s been very vocal about the Warriors being a contender, even Draymond Green feels disheartened and thinks that their blowout loss against OKC is already taking a toll on their winning culture.
The Jam-Packed West Contenders and Their Superstars
Unfortunately for the Warriors, they’re going to fight for every ounce against the best teams in the Western Conference. Moreover, each of these teams are enjoying the service of their superstars who are currently at their peak.
The Los Angeles Lakers have Luka Doncic at the helm, while the Denver Nuggets are still a dominant force with three-time MVP Nikola Jokic. Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves are looming in the dark while Alperen Sengun is now joined with Kevin Durant in Houston. Even worst, the San Antonio Spurs look promising, especially with a new and improved Victor Wembanyama, who the Warriors will face tomorrow and on November 15th in a back-to-back road game in Texas. Of course, there’s the OKC Thunder and SGA who’s hungry to run it back this year.
