Good Times in Golden State: Warriors Light Up the NBA

After starting the season with six straight losses, the 9-7 Golden State Warriors are the hottest team in the NBA.

Point guard Baron Davis is playing like a man hell-bent on an All-Star spot. His leadership and playmaking ability give the Warriors a chance to win every game they're in.

Stephen Jackson's return from a six-game suspension to start the year has also been instrumental in the team's success, as Jackson can run the offense when Davis is on the bench.

Jackson proved his worth last week by sinking two straight late three-pointers to propel the Warriors to a win in Sacramento. Jackson and Davis both show no fear in clutch situations.

Bay Area fans were worried that the offseason loss of shooting guard Jason Richardson would hurt the team, but that hasn't been the case.

Richardson was a streaky scorer prone to defensive lapses. He wasn't known for hitting key shots at key times.

Richardson's replacement, Kelenna Azubuike, has already made a game-winning shot this season in Philadelphia. Azubuike has proven himself more than capable of filling J-Rich's shoes; the only things Richardson does better than Azubuike are rebound and dunk.

21-year-old Andris Biedrins, for his part, has shown marked improvement since Jackson's return. Biedrins is making his free throws and playing well on defense—and he's converting more consistently when Jackson and Davis dish him the ball in the paint.

Third-year pro Monta Ellis has also elevated his play from last season. Ellis has shown the ability to drive and kick out to open shooters, and also boasts an effective midrange jumper.

Ellis' three-point shooting is the only aspect of his game that needs improving.

The Warriors as a whole have beaten both the NBA's elite and the teams they're supposed to beat. An example of the latter came last night against the inexperienced Sonics, when Golden State led by 20 points for most of the game and coach Don Nelson was able to get Davis some much-needed rest.

The time off is certain to help Davis tonight when the Warriors get back on the court against the Orlando Magic. Look for Davis to do anything he wants against Jameer Nelson.

Dwight Howard, on the other hand, will be tough to stop, and Golden State will look to double him when he catches the ball in the post.

Orlando is 3-1 heading into the final game of a five-game road trip. Give the Warriors the edge, as the Magic are likely too road-weary to keep pace with the up-tempo Golden State offense.