The Golden State Warriors are in the NBA Draft lottery for the 16th time in the last 17 seasons, an unprecedented streak that makes them the real veterans of the lottery process. The Warriors finished with the 11th-worst record in the NBA in 2010/11 and will therefore have a 0.8 percent chance of winning the No. 1 overall pick. They have less than a three percent chance of moving up and nabbing one of the first three picks, so in all likelihood, they will pick 11th.
NBA Draft Lottery 2011: Golden State Warriors Search For Defense
TEAM NEEDS
The Warriors need defense and depth everywhere, especially up front. Andris Biedrins had a very bad year and lost all his confidence. Ekpe Udoh showed flashes at the end of last season as a rookie, but he still needs to develop to be a regular starter. David Lee, meanwhile, struggled in his first year playing power forward rather than as a small center. Golden State could always use more bodies up front.
Also, a wing defender would be ideal. The Stephen Curry-Monta Ellis backcourt has functioned for now, but eventually, getting better defense at shooting guard is necessary.
IF THEY WIN
On the off chance this would happen, Derrick Williams would be ideal in the Warriors’ up-tempo attack, assuming it actually is an up-tempo attack next season. Kyrie Irving is also a possibility, though that would necessitate trading Ellis.
More realistically, someone like Kahwi Leonard or either of the Morris twins from Kansas would be excellent additions for what the Warriors need.
PREVIOUS LUCK
The Warriors won the lottery in 1995 despite having the fifth-worst record, but have only picked in the top three one other time. In 2002, the Warriors took Mike Dunleavy Jr. third overall. Otherwise, the Warriors have not fared well in the lottery, even though they have had plenty of chances.
For more on the Warriors, visit SB Nation Bay Area and Golden State of Mind.
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