Warriors Face Challenges Without Curry, But Show Promise Against Top Teams
When the news broke about Stephen Curry’s knee reevaluation, revealing he'd miss at least five more games, the Golden State Warriors knew they had a tough stretch ahead. Facing the Boston Celtics and Denver Nuggets right after the All-Star break was no easy task, especially with a lineup missing key players like Draymond Green and Kristaps Porzingis.
Tough Loss to the Celtics
The Warriors' struggle for offensive consistency was evident in their 121-110 loss to Boston. Despite starting strong and finishing with a flourish, the middle quarters were a different story.
Golden State shot a mere 35% during those stretches, hitting only seven of 26 three-point attempts and turning the ball over seven times. These lapses allowed the Celtics to build a daunting 34-point lead by the third quarter.
Boston, led by Jaylen Brown’s impressive triple-double, executed almost flawlessly, shooting over 51% from the field and dishing out 36 assists. The Warriors' defense, especially the pairing of Green and Porzingis, struggled, contributing to Boston's dominance in the paint.
Resilient Win Over the Nuggets
In contrast, the Warriors’ 128-117 victory over Denver was a season highlight. Missing their top stars, Golden State showcased depth and resilience.
Brandin Podziemski was a standout, nearly achieving a triple-double with 18 points, 15 rebounds, and nine assists. His fourth-quarter performance was particularly noteworthy, marking a rare achievement for a reserve player.
The team effort was evident as seven players scored in double figures, including Al Horford and De’Anthony Melton. The Warriors' offense clicked in the fourth quarter, shooting 68% and holding Denver to just 31.8%.
Challenges and Opportunities
While Nikola Jokic’s dominant triple-double for Denver was a challenge, the Warriors’ ability to secure a win despite it speaks volumes about their potential. However, addressing shooting slumps remains crucial, as seen in their struggles during the third quarter against Denver.
Looking Ahead
Brandin Podziemski’s recent performances have been a bright spot, earning him Player of the Week honors. As the Warriors prepare to face the Pelicans and Grizzlies, they’ll do so without Porzingis, who’s sidelined due to illness. Draymond Green, however, will be traveling with the team, providing some hope for defensive stability.
The Warriors’ journey this season is a testament to their depth and potential, even amidst adversity. With key players returning and young talent stepping up, they remain a team to watch.