The Boston Celtics appear to be in a stronger position based on recent performance, team chemistry, and efficiency ratings. However, the Golden State Warriors possess a higher franchise value and a proven track record of playoff success, making them a formidable contender as well. Both teams face challenges related to salary cap management.
| Attribute | Golden State Warriors | Boston Celtics |
|---|---|---|
| Championship Titles | 7 (1947, 1956, 1975, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2022) | 18 (1957, 1959-1966, 1968-1969, 1974, 1976, 1981, 1984, 1986, 2008, 2024) |
| Recent Season Performance (Win/Loss Record) | 48-34 in the 2024-2025 season. Reached Conference Semifinals but lost to the Timberwolves 1-4. | 61-21 in the 2024-2025 season, 2nd in the NBA Eastern Conference (28-13 at home, 33-8 on the road) |
| Key Players (Current Roster) | Stephen Curry, Brandin Podziemski, Buddy Hield, Jimmy Butler, Draymond Green, Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, Gary Payton II, Kevon Looney, and Trayce Jackson-Davis. | Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, Kristaps Porzingis, Jrue Holiday |
| Team's Offensive Efficiency | Offensive rating of 115.0 (15th in the league) in the 2024-2025 season. | Offensive rating of 120.6 (2nd in the league), averaged 116.3 points per game (8th in the NBA) |
| Team's Defensive Efficiency | Defensive rating of 111.7 (7th in the league) during the 2024-2025 season. | Defensive rating of 111.1 (5th in the league), allowed 107.2 points per game (2nd best in the NBA) |
| Coaching Staff Experience | Steve Kerr (Head Coach), Mike Dunleavy Jr. (General Manager) | Head coach Joe Mazzulla (61-21 record in the 2024-2025 season) |
| Team Chemistry and Cohesion | Infusion of younger players brings energy but also challenges in terms of chemistry. Mentorship from veterans like Stephen Curry and Draymond Green is crucial. | Chemistry is reportedly off the charts, and players embrace each other's successes. |
| Home Court Advantage (Fan Support) | Chase Center. Home attendance was 740,624 (16th in the league) in the 2024-2025 season. Fan engagement and community connection remain a cornerstone of the franchise. | TD Garden, known for its electrifying atmosphere and passionate fans, contributing to a strong home-court advantage. |
| Playoff Success Rate | 45% success rate of reaching the NBA playoffs. 38 playoff appearances in 79 years. 55% playoff win rate. | Long history of playoff success, with 18 NBA championships. |
| Team's Salary Cap Situation | Significant portion of their salary cap committed to Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green entering the 2025-26 season. | Difficult decisions to make regarding their expensive roster. Jrue Holiday is mentioned as a player who may be affected by these financial considerations. |
| Franchise Value and Stability | Valued at $9.4 billion, making them the most valuable NBA franchise. | Sold for a record-breaking $6.1 billion in March 2025. Purchased by Bill Chisholm, though Wyc Grousbeck will remain as CEO and governor through the 2027-2028 season. |
| Community Involvement and Reputation | Warriors Community Foundation supports education and youth development in the Bay Area. Since 2012, the foundation has raised over $47 million. | Committed to community service through the Boston Celtics Shamrock Foundation. Jaylen Brown launched the Boston XChange (BXC), a nonprofit initiative to generate $5B in generational wealth in communities of color. |