The Warriors' season might seem destined to wrap up early, but there's a silver lining in the form of Gui Santos and Kristaps Porzingis. Their recent performances have sparked hope for the future.
In their last eight games together, Santos and Porzingis have posted an impressive 110.5 offensive rating and a 97.3 defensive rating. Imagining them alongside a healthy Jimmy Butler and Steph Curry is tantalizing for Warriors fans.
The duo combined for 55 points in the Warriors' 131-126 victory over the Washington Wizards, marking their third consecutive win. This streak is the first since Butler's injury on January 19. In a game where the Wizards, in tank mode, hung around longer than expected, Santos and Porzingis took charge in the fourth quarter, scoring 24 points to secure the win.
Porzingis, despite leading with 28 points, admits his shooting isn't quite back due to a wrist issue. "I got lucky, crazy.
No honestly it's not feeling good," he said, hinting at better performances once he's fully healed. He hit five of 11 from beyond the arc, his best shooting night with the Warriors.
Porzingis has played in just under half of the games this season, crediting Rick Celebrini for his management: “Rick is amazing. Rick is the GOAT,” he praised.
Brandin Podziemski continues to shine, posting another 20-point double-double, his second in three games. He leads the Warriors in March with 242 points and 89 rebounds, and shares second in assists with Santos.
Gary Payton II's streak of consecutive made field goals ended at 16, but his run of double-figure scoring games continues, adding 15 points against the Wizards for ten games straight.
Draymond Green recorded his fifth 10-assist game of the season, contributing across the board with four rebounds, a steal, two blocks, and six points. The Warriors are 9-4 when Green takes four or fewer shots.
Gui Santos is benefiting from increased opportunities due to injuries, learning to model his game after Jimmy Butler. "I learned a lot from Jimmy," Santos said, focusing on decision-making in the paint.
He followed a career night against the Nets with 27 points, four rebounds, and four assists against the Wizards. His development will be crucial when Curry returns, especially in handling double-teams.
Looking ahead, the Warriors' three-game win streak came against teams with more interest in draft position than victories. A tougher challenge awaits as they head to Denver.
Curry will miss the trip, still recovering from a knee injury, and will be re-evaluated next week. Al Horford remains sidelined with a calf strain, while Seth Curry and Quinten Post are day-to-day.
With fewer than 10 games left, the Warriors are chasing the No. 8 spot, trailing Portland by half a game and the Clippers by two, whom they face in the regular-season finale. The possibility of Curry returning this season is dwindling.
Coach Steve Kerr acknowledged the discussions, emphasizing that if Curry returns, it must be before the Play-In Tournament. The risk of further injury outweighs the potential reward given the current situation.