Patryk Stachowiak
The Golden State Warriors may no longer be the dynasty that dominated the league in the 2010s, but don’t count them out just yet. Despite a major shift this offseason most notably Klay Thompson heading to Dallas the Warriors pulled a rabbit out of the hat by trading for veteran star Jimmy Butler at the deadline. And according to one NBA icon, that move, along with their experience, could be a game-changer.
NBA Hall of Famer Vince Carter, speaking with NBC Sports’ Monte Poole, highlighted what he believes is Golden State’s secret weapon heading into next season: veteran IQ.
Vince Carter. Source: si.com
“A lotta knowledge,” Carter emphasized. “They have an advantage because of knowledge. We always look at age and we think ‘Oh, they can’t do it. Can they do it? Will they do it?’ But look at the knowledge.”
It’s a perspective that challenges the usual narrative. With Steph Curry, Draymond Green, and now Butler all over 35 many have questioned whether the Warriors can still contend, especially with emerging squads like the Denver Nuggets and Houston Rockets stacking young talent. Carter, however, sees strength in wisdom.
“To me, you need a mixture of everything,” he continued. “You have the veteran presence in the locker room, which a lot of teams die for they have that. Now you have to put the young guys around that to guide them. You can’t expect those guys to do it every night.”
The roster still includes promising talent like Brandin Podziemski, Moses Moody, Quinten Post, and possibly Jonathan Kuminga should he remain with the team. This blend of championship-tested experience and youth development could quietly position the Warriors as one of the league’s most unpredictable squads.
While the sportsbooks might not have the Warriors as top favorites heading into the 2025 season, Vince Carter’s take reminds fans and bettors alike: never underestimate a team that knows how to win.