The strongest shooter next to Curry is here! The Warriors are expected to reshape their terrifying defense

ESPN's previous season preview predicted that the Warriors will achieve the second regular season record in the Western Conference. One reason is Al Horford's influence.

Horford is an inside partner that Stephen Curry has never partnered with before. Since Curry broke out into the ranks of stars in the 2012-13 season, among the big shooters around him, Dario Saric has made the most three-pointers. He made 74 three-pointers as a substitute in the 2023-24 season. Post made 73 three-pointers last season.

For comparison, Horford has made at least three times the number of three-pointers in each of the past three seasons, while shooting 40.9% of the three-pointers, ranking first among all centers with at least 100 attempts, slightly higher than Towns' 40.8%. Horford can stretch the floor, which is extremely important for Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler, both of whom will refuse to shoot.

Horford is still a far better defender and organizer than Saric and Post. He is a comprehensive upgrade for the Warriors. Horford, Green, and Butler will form the most intimidating defensive frontcourt. The three of them have been selected to the All-Defensive Team 15 times combined.

Strong defense is the signature of the Warriors winning games. In the final championship season of 2021-22, the Warriors ranked second in the league in defensive efficiency. After Butler joined last season, the Warriors ranked first in defense in the league. And it was done when the opponent shot a very high three-point shooting percentage.