There was a need to recreate the lost momentum. But, did it happen? Sadly, no. The Golden State Warriors might be on one of their worst losing streaks in years. And well, it’s safe to say, that Steve Kerr’s strategies have seemingly become readable for the ops. Down, 13-9, the Dubs desperately need the basketball gods to smile at them again. Meanwhile, coming back for the team on Friday, Stephen Curry and Draymond Green tried their best to dominate the court— wasn’t enough. However, amidst, the disappointing run, something interesting unfolded at Chase Center. It’s the new talk of the town!
Draymond Green made his comeback off the bench. What? No starting lineup for Dr. Dunkenstein? Well, Steve Kerr called it a strategic move post-game. At first, it seemed like a temporary fix for his injury. But now? It might just be the new norm. Something’s brewing, and the rotation shake-up seems to connect not just Draymond but also Jonathan Kuminga’s fate.
So, what was the idea behind giving the 22-year-old guard some major floor time?
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Draymond Green and Steve Kerr’s vision aligned with the unexpected decision
The Warriors weren’t hoping for a 107-90 loss vs. TWolves after Thursday’s win over the Rockets. With Steph and Draymond resting, Andrew Wiggins and Jonathan Kuminga stole the show. Wiggs dropped 23, and JK lit it up with 33. Their performance might’ve given Coach Kerr ideas—like starting the 22-year-old Kuminga. Less pressure on Draymond? Sounds like a win-win!
Speaking in the postgame presser on Friday, Kerr clarified his stance with DrayMagic’s benching scenes. The 59YO HC said: “I’d like to give it a look but you know we’ll see what happens with Wiggs and Moses. I mean every injury affects every rotation. But you know the idea is, we’re trying to make the most of Jonathan’s ability to get downhill.” He added: “To get him more time. He and Wigs last night were fantastic so we’re searching for ways to get those guys more involved. And not wear down Draymond and Steph and that’s kind of the trick.”
Coach Kerr’s got a plan. He’s eyeing stars and banking on young guns like JK and Wiggs to shine. Meanwhile, Steph’s tendinitis and Draymond’s calf need careful handling. Injuries have been a nightmare this season, throwing strategies off and shaking things up on the court. It’s no shocker that the head coach wants his superstars to take it easy while the youngsters take the lead and get to work on themselves.
Besides, Draymond loves JK, so giving up his spot wasn’t tough. After Friday’s game, he told the media why. He’s also part of the big decisions, and honestly? These things don’t faze him one bit. So, Dray said: “Coach just called and asked. He said it’s something he was thinking about and he wanted to know if I was okay with it. Of course, I’m okay with it. I’ve been one of JK’s biggest fans since he’s been here. So if he has an opportunity to start you can’t be hypocritical.”
It’s a classic “you gotta do what you gotta do” move. No biggie for Draymond—he’s been here before. NBA stars know the drill. Plus, Green’s all about team-first vibes. He’s even rooting for Kuminga, whose future with the Warriors is on shaky ground. Instead of pulling the “this is my spot” card, DrayMagic handed it over to his 22-year-old teammate. But what’s the deal with Kerr’s bold plan?
So, Steve Kerr’s vision and Draymond Green’s admiration for Jonathan Kuminga became the ultimate concoction for the plan that unfolded before the Dub Nation.
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Stephen Curry drops some words of appreciation for Draymond’s sacrifices
“It shows professionalism. It shows his commitment to us trying to figure out what rotation works, what lineup works, and what the flow should be.” Stephen Curry said about Draymond Green, hyping up his decade-long teammate. Curry added: “He came in and gave us a huge boost in that first quarter. You know putting the ball in the basket, hit a big three. Obviously, we know what he does on defense every night, we have to be able to sacrifice for the group. It’s again the DNA of this team right now and until we figure out who we are.” Dray gave the Warriors a boost, scoring 10 points, grabbing 9 rebounds, and dishing 6 assists against the Timberwolves. A defensive maestro, Dray did his thing—because no one does it like him. But even his magic couldn’t stop the Dubs from taking another L.
Besides, Steph also contributed to Kerr’s unexpected Draymond Green decision. Curry gave his input on the idea, and he told this in the postgame presser. “It’s about the culture and commitment of how we do things… we’re trying to figure out.” It looks like a lot of things are going through the trial-and-error methods with the Dubs right now. What combinations to play, what rotations can work, and more are the only discussions in the locker room.
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With Kerr’s bold experiments, Draymond’s selflessness, and Kuminga’s rising star, the Warriors are stirring the pot. Sure, the losses sting, but the sparks of chemistry can’t be ignored. As the Dubs embrace experimental mode, the road ahead looks unpredictable yet thrilling. After all, chaos sometimes births brilliance—are we on the brink of a Warrior renaissance?
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Is Steve Kerr's gamble with Kuminga the spark the Warriors need to reignite their winning ways?
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Is Steve Kerr's gamble with Kuminga the spark the Warriors need to reignite their winning ways?
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