But Gary Payton can feel it, it's just self-deception. People lost confidence because of the Reign Man's departure and gave up on competing this season, and that false confidence would be completely exposed in training and matches.
Everyone says they'll keep trying, but they slack off in practice and don't give their all in games.
Losing the second key player doesn't mean the team will immediately collapse, but it is definitely the beginning of their decline.
However, in San Francisco, the players' confidence is reflected in their actions.
The Warriors as a whole give off the vibe that each of them is preparing to achieve something big.
They genuinely believe they can build a dynasty under Roger's leadership, even with the unfortunate loss of Amar'e Stoudemire.
Gary Payton couldn't understand where this confidence came from, but even he got swept up by this atmosphere.
