Golden State Warriors Surge Toward NBA Finals Contention

The Golden State Warriors have shown significant improvement this season, becoming a prominent contender in the NBA Finals race. With a current record of 41-29, they occupy the No. 6 seed in the Western Conference as they approach the end of the regular season. After facing early-season struggles, the team turned its fortunes around, largely due to a pivotal trade deadline deal that brought Jimmy Butler from the Miami Heat to the Bay Area.

Building momentum, the Warriors have been on a tear, winning nine of their last ten games. Their recent success has also been aided by the emergence of Kevin Knox, who has signed a deal with the team that will last through the remainder of the season, as reported by ESPN's NBA insider Shams Charania. Since joining the Warriors, Knox has participated in seven games, averaging 7.3 minutes of play per contest.

In those seven outings, Knox has contributed an average of 4.0 points and 1.6 rebounds. While those numbers may not appear as standout at first glance, they come with the potential for more, showcasing his ability to be an impactful player under the right circumstances. Before joining the Warriors, Knox had a promising background – originally drafted with the No. 9 overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft by the New York Knicks, he spent four seasons developing his game in New York.

Notably, Knox had a remarkable performance earlier in this season against the Charlotte Hornets on February 25, 2025, where he scored 12 points, snagged 5 rebounds, dished out 3 assists, and blocked 2 shots in just 15 minutes of action. This game displayed his ability to step up when needed and perform efficiently, strengthening the Warriors’ trust in him as they head into crucial playoff moments.

The decision to formally secure Knox's services for the rest of the season illustrates the Warriors' confidence in his capability to add depth and versatility to the team. Even as he averages modest contributions in recent games, his previous performances during expanded playing time have underscored the depth the Warriors are trying to build as they prepare for a playoff push.

As of now, the Warriors' upcoming game is slated for Saturday, March 22, where they will go on the road to face the Atlanta Hawks. With the playoffs fast approaching, every game becomes crucial, and the Warriors will need each player, including Knox, to rise to the occasion.

In conclusion, the combination of acquiring Jimmy Butler and the emergence of Kevin Knox as a reliable asset marks a pivotal turnaround for the Golden State Warriors, who are positioning themselves as serious contenders for the championship. Their recent form highlights the significant progress made and suggests that they might be poised for a deep playoff run.