Warriors Pull Off Stunning Win Over Nuggets Despite Depleted Roster
In a game that had all the makings of a tough night for the Golden State Warriors, they defied the odds and delivered a thrilling 128-117 victory over the Denver Nuggets at the Chase Center. Despite missing key players like Steph Curry and Kristaps Porzingis, and losing Draymond Green just before tipoff, the Warriors' resilience shone through.
The Warriors had to dig deep, especially with a bench that was running on fumes. Yet, they found a spark in Brandin Podziemski, who came off the bench to score 15 of his 18 points in a blistering fourth quarter.
After a rough start, Podziemski found his rhythm, hitting fadeaways, floaters, and crucial 3-pointers that electrified the home crowd. His near triple-double performance included 15 rebounds and nine assists.
Veteran Al Horford turned back the clock, scoring 22 points in front of his son Ean, who celebrated his 11th birthday. Moses Moody led the team with 23 points, while De’Anthony Melton and Gui Santos added 20 and 17 points, respectively. From the bench, Gary Payton II contributed 15 points, and Will Richard chipped in with 11.
Nikola Jokic was his usual dominant self for Denver, posting a triple-double with 35 points, 20 rebounds, and 12 assists. The Nuggets stayed competitive, tying the game at 109 with six minutes left. But the Warriors responded with a 7-0 run that swung momentum back in their favor, sealing the win with Podziemski's late-game heroics.
Golden State started strong, taking a 39-27 lead after the first quarter, thanks to their sharp shooting from beyond the arc. They maintained their offensive flow into halftime, leading 76-67 with an impressive 25 assists on 27 field goals.
However, the third quarter saw a dip in their shooting as they missed all 14 three-point attempts and committed six turnovers, allowing Denver to edge ahead 101-95. But the Warriors regrouped in the final quarter, showcasing their depth and determination.
Next up, the Warriors (30-27) hit the road to face the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday.
Porzingis Sidelined by Illness
Kristaps Porzingis, who was expected to increase his minutes after a recent debut against Boston, was a late scratch due to illness. Coach Steve Kerr received word that Porzingis was too sick to leave his hotel room, casting doubt on his availability for the upcoming road trip to New Orleans and Memphis. Porzingis has faced multiple challenges this season, including injuries and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS).
Warriors Tune In for Olympic Hockey
The Warriors had more than just basketball on their minds, as they followed the USA vs. Canada Olympic gold medal hockey game.
The team had a personal connection, watching Macklin Celebrini, son of team doctor Rick Celebrini, play for Canada. Despite Canada's loss to the USA in a 2-1 overtime thriller, the event was a poignant reminder of the emotional power of sports.
Coach Kerr was particularly moved by Team USA's tribute to the late Johnny Gaudreau, a moment that resonated deeply with the team.