ESPN just dropped one of its craziest takes yet, and NBA fans aren’t exactly buying it. The network projected that the Golden State Warriors will win 63 games this season, lose only 9, and finish with a .768 win percentage. On paper, that’s a dynasty-level season. But to fans and analysts, it sounds way too optimistic for a roster headlined by veterans in their mid-to-late 30s.

According to ESPN’s projection, Golden State’s red-hot post–Jimmy Butler trade form is the blueprint. After the deal, the Warriors went 28-15 in 43 games—a 27-8 stretch when Butler, Stephen Curry, and Draymond Green all suited up —a pace that translates exactly to 63 wins.

The logic makes some sense. Butler brought defensive grit and efficient isolation scoring. The additions of Al Horford, Seth Curry, and a healt

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