The Golden State Warriors, led by Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, are facing a tough phase, evident from the boos and early exits of fans during recent home games. Coach Steve Kerr expressed concern about the team’s fragile state, acknowledging the need to find their fighting spirit and possibly adopt new tactics.
The Warriors’ woes were compounded in a heavy 141-105 defeat to the New Orleans Pelicans, led by Jonas Valanciunas with 21 points, nine rebounds, and two steals. This loss, one of the worst during Kerr’s tenure, left Curry and Thompson disheartened, with Curry admitting to being self-critical and Thompson describing the mood as deflating.
Curry, who had a disappointing performance in the previous game, could only muster 15 points and six assists against the Pelicans. Zion Williamson, who started for New Orleans despite a bruised right quadriceps, added 19 points, seven assists, and five rebounds. Under the guidance of former Warriors assistant Willie Green, the Pelicans have been on a winning streak, recently claiming a victory over Sacramento.
The Warriors, who conceded a season-high in points and faced their largest home defeat since 2007, are visibly struggling. Center Kevon Looney acknowledged the team’s poor performance and the deserved boos from the fans. The absence of Draymond Green, who is currently serving a league suspension, is keenly felt.
Golden State’s struggles were evident from the start, falling behind early and unable to recover, similar to their previous loss to Toronto. Kerr’s call for greater urgency seems unheeded, with the team allowing a season-high 46 points in the first quarter and trailing significantly at halftime.
Moses Moody provided a spark off the bench with 21 points, but it wasn’t enough to lift the Warriors. The team is eagerly anticipating the return of Draymond Green and Chris Paul, who is out due to surgery on his left finger.
Curry reflected on the team’s challenges, emphasizing the need to find solutions internally and maintain belief in their ability to win the next game.
Looking ahead, the Pelicans will face Denver, while the Warriors begin a four-game trip starting in Chicago, both scheduled for Friday night.
