Since acquiring Chris Paul in June, the Warriors’ chemistry has improved significantly compared to its struggling state during the 2022-23 NBA season.
In an interview with Matt Steinmetz and Daryle Johnson of 95.7 The Game on Monday, former Warriors center and current front office consultant Zaza Pachulia confirmed Golden State’s reformed roster connection and shared an exclusive story about how he happened upon a late-night practice pushed.
“Before training camp even started, I ate dinner in town and left my car here (Chase Center) because it was so difficult to park,” Pachulia told Steinmetz and Johnson. “I came back to pick up my car. A ball bounced. I thought it was one of the security guards. So I opened the door and saw Steph (Curry), (Chris Paul) and Moses Moody. Saturday evening at 9:15 a.m. Recording will take place at 9:15 p.m
“You know what? That’s it. You feel the energy. Feel the connection. By the way, this is something super important. Super important.”
Pachulia, a two-time champion, knows how important team cohesion is in the pursuit of a title. The former Warriors big man was part of the Kevin Durant era at Golden State, which saw consistent wins and chemistry issues that ultimately led to the superstar wing leaving after three seasons.
However, Pachulia’s recent experience convinced him that the Warriors are on a better path this season and are putting in extra work on and off the court.
“Honestly, it was so beautiful to see. Steph had (Paul), who had just joined our team, who was our opponent, a tough opponent literally every year, and the young buck (Moody). By the way, this was her second training session. Morning run, then they came to take additional shots. That was great. That was – you know what? I feel great this year.
Pachulia has every right to be excited about the season as Golden State’s roster has plenty of leadership and experience.
Additionally, the Warriors posted a 4-1 record in the NBA preseason and appear ready for their first regular season game against the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday at Chase Center.
Obviously, Golden State didn’t have a strong locker room camaraderie last season.
But according to Pachulia, those days are over and the Warriors’ core is ready to compete as a cohesive unit for their fifth title.
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