Are the Golden State Warriors really ‘The New Showtime’?

Are the Golden State Warriors worthy of the moniker “The New Showtime”?

Sports Illustrated’s NBA season preview features four different covers, one of which features Warriors guard Stephen Curry, that “Showtime” headline and the subheadline “Steph Curry and Golden State are more than entertainers -- they’re true contenders.”

The Warriors may have a shot to win the West, but should they be compared to the Showtime Lakers of the 1980s?

Golden State won 47 games last season, advancing to the second round of the playoffs past the Denver Nuggets despite lacking home-court advantage.

Golden State gave a scare to the San Antonio Spurs before falling in six games.

The team plays an exciting brand of basketball with speed, athleticism and scorching outside shooting. When Curry gets hot, he’s almost unguardable.

The Showtime Lakers won titles in 1980, ‘82, ‘85, ’87 and ’88. They advanced to the NBA Finals nine times during the Magic Johnson era.

The Warriors last won a title in 1975.

Golden State may be the best ticket this season. They should win over 50 games if healthy. With the addition of Andre Iguodala, they may prove to be more of a force in the postseason, but “The New Showtime”?

That’s a little much.

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Email Eric Pincus at eric.pincus@gmail.com and follow him on Twitter @EricPincus.