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The Warriors were humbled 129-100 at home to the San Antonio Spurs during Tuesday’s season opener, spoiling marquee free-agency signing Kevin Durant’s long-awaited debut.

Fans and pundits alike have almost unanimously tipped the Warriors to regain the Championship at a canter this year, following the controversial acquisition of Durant from Oklahoma City in July.

But wily coach Gregg Popovich proved the task would be easier said than done, masterminding his aging Spurs side – themselves adjusting to life after Tim Duncan – to a surprise victory at the Oracle Arena.

(Image: GETTY/DAILYSTARONLINE)

And two-time MVP Nash, a part-time player development consultant with the San Francisco franchise, admits the team’s teething problems could run through until Christmas.

“It’s a challenge because not only have they added Kevin, they’ve added half a new team,” he told Daily Star Online.

“It’s gonna take until Christmas and I would say beyond before they really start to feel that familiar with one another.”

The Warriors’ loss marks a drastic change to the beginning of the record-breaking 73-9 campaign last season that saw the team win their first 24 games.

But the former Phoenix Suns point guard said he believed the players’ quality would shine through.

“It’s a long season, they’re gonna take their knocks and lumps and growing pains,” he continued.

(Image: GETTY)

“Especially in the early part to some extent, but they’re also gonna show some nights why people think they’re the best team in the league.

“They’ll be a little bit up-and-down but they’re gonna be a tremendous team and they’ve got a lot of character in the locker room.”

One of the most influential players in the dressing room, Draymond Green, made headlines during the Warrriors’ pre-season game against the Blazers after apparently throwing a kick at guard Allen Crabbe.

The short-tempered Michigan native then had to be separated from a visibly unhappy Crabbe in the resulting confrontation.

Steve Nash is due to make appearances at the NBA Crossover exhibition in London this weekend.

NBA Crossover is located at Kachette, 347 Old Street, London, EC1V 9LP and is open daily from 12pm until 7pm.