Seth Curry’s Debut Sparks Life Into Warriors Despite Loss to Thunder
The final score won’t show it, but Tuesday night at Chase Center was about more than just a 124-112 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. For the Golden State Warriors, it was a glimpse of what might be possible-even in the absence of their biggest stars.
Down 19 at the half, missing Stephen Curry entirely and losing Jimmy Butler to a knee injury before the third quarter even began, Golden State looked like a team on the ropes. But then came a second-half surge that turned a potential blowout into a thriller-and Seth Curry, in his Warriors debut, was right in the middle of it.
A Curry Flurry When It Was Needed Most
Signed just a day earlier, Seth Curry wasted no time making his presence felt. The veteran guard dropped 14 points on 6-of-7 shooting in just his first game back in a Warriors uniform. He knocked down two of his three attempts from deep, but it wasn’t just the spot-up shooting that stood out-it was the poise, the off-the-dribble jumpers, and the floor spacing he provided that gave Golden State’s offense new life.
With Steph sidelined and Butler out, the Warriors were desperate for someone to take the reins. Curry stepped up and delivered, helping fuel a 44-point third quarter that turned a 19-point deficit into a one-point lead with under five minutes to play. For a moment, it looked like the Warriors might pull off one of the most improbable comebacks of the season-against the team with the NBA’s best record, no less.
Spencer’s Spark, Podziemski’s Poise
Seth wasn’t the only unexpected contributor. Pat Spencer came off the bench and played like a man trying to make a statement.
In just 21 minutes, he poured in 17 points, grabbed three boards, and dished out six assists. He even went toe-to-toe with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in crunch time, trading buckets in a stretch that had the Chase Center crowd on its feet.
Brandin Podziemski also continued to show why he’s earning more trust in the rotation. After a strong opening quarter, he finished with 17 points, four rebounds, and four assists-another solid all-around performance from the rookie guard.
Golden State had six players score in double figures, a testament to the team’s depth and resilience, even as they played without their two biggest stars.
Thunder Close Like Champions
But as good teams do, the Thunder didn’t panic. Gilgeous-Alexander reminded everyone why he’s in the MVP conversation, finishing with 38 points and hitting 5-of-6 from deep. Oklahoma City closed the game on a 25-9 run, silencing the crowd and securing their 21st win of the season.
Still, for the Warriors, this wasn’t just another tally in the loss column. It was a night where the bench showed fight, Seth Curry showed he’s ready to contribute, and the team-short-handed as it was-showed heart.
Looking Ahead
Now the focus shifts to Butler’s health. Golden State will need him back if they want to stay afloat in a loaded Western Conference.
But if Tuesday night proved anything, it’s that this team has more than just star power. They’ve got grit, depth, and a few surprises up their sleeve.
Next up: a three-game road trip starting Thursday in Philadelphia. If Seth Curry can keep this momentum going, and if Butler’s injury isn’t serious, the Warriors might just be getting started.