The Golden State Warriors saw their seven-game winning streak snapped by a defiant Denver Nuggets squad—one that was missing both Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray. Despite the absences, Michael Malone’s team still managed to pull off the upset, handing the Dubs a frustrating loss. It was a sharp contrast to the way the Warriors had been playing since acquiring Jimmy Butler, making this setback all the more disappointing. Let’s just say Steve Kerr wasn’t pleased. And beyond calling out his team’s performance, he also made a key decision regarding Stephen Curry ahead of their matchup with the Milwaukee Bucks.
Kerr was of the opinion that the Warriors looked “awful” as the Nuggets’ Aaron Gordon put 38 points past them. “We played poorly out of the gate and never found rhythm and they played great…We were awful…When I talk about spacing, it’s regardless of skillset…Last night we had a bunch of possessions where it looked like the 1980s, six guys in the paint,” said Kerr.
It wasn’t just an exaggeration. Back in the ’80s, the NBA was dominated by interior play, with teams relying heavily on post-ups, mid-range jumpers, and slashing guards rather than spreading the floor. The three-point shot was more of an afterthought. Golden State, a team built on modern spacing and ball movement, regressing to that style was exactly what Kerr was calling out.
And the Dubs coach’s frustration was justified—not only did the Warriors stray from their identity, but their execution made it even worse. Instead of the usual fluid ball movement and perimeter play, they forced their way inside, creating congestion in the paint. That’s exactly what Kerr pointed out when explaining what went wrong.
“We were desperate, we were attacking the rim. We were playing lineups that hadn’t played much or at all this year…Guys have to be spaced. If everyone’s crowding the paint, there’s no room for passing,” said Steve. And the Warriors’ box score told the same story.
Asked Kerr about the Warriors spacing adjustment without Curry available: “When I talk about spacing, it’s regardless of skillset… Last night we had a bunch of possessions where it looked like the 1980s, six guys in the paint.” — Full quote pic.twitter.com/zpXq1ea0Ts
— Evan Giddings (@evanAgiddings) March 19, 2025
They shot at an abysmal 24.2% from beyond the arc. But unlike their usual high-volume displays, they only attempted 27 3-pointers against the Nuggets compared to their average of 42. Their passing didn’t look the best either, given how much they crowded the paint as Kerr pointed out. This is why the assist numbers were also lopsided at 32-24.
All in all, the Warriors did not seem like the team they’d been since after the All-Star break. Steph Curry didn’t look like himself either against the Nuggets. And Steve Kerr revealed the major call he had to make about him ahead of the Milwaukee Bucks game.
Steve Kerr announces decision to rest “out of sorts” Stephen Curry
Steph wasn’t at his best against the Denver Nuggets. His shooting numbers weren’t good, going 6-21 for field goals, and 4-14 from beyond the arc. However, it was his movement off the ball that looked severely compromised. You may think the back issue he’s been dealing with caused this, but Kerr begs to differ.
“He’s fine physically, his back looked fine last night…When he’s emotionally tired, it affects his decision-making. He’s been turning it over the last couple of games, he’s a little out of sorts…We know him well. He just needs a night off once in a while, he’s for sure earned…But the last couple of games, I think the fatigue has shown,” explained Kerr.
Aug 3, 2024; Villeneuve-d’Ascq, France; United States head coach Steve Kerr talks to shooting guard Stephen Curry (4) in the second quarter against Puerto Rico during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Stade Pierre-Mauroy. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Kerr announced that Steph‘s absence would be for just one game. So he’ll be back in time for his team to take on the Toronto Raptors. And we can’t agree more with the Warriors head coach. If anyone has earned a night off, it’s Stephen Curry. He recently led the Warriors to a 4-1 run in their 5-game road trip. Curry averaged 34.8 points in those games while shooting at a 55.1% clip. And being that consistent away from home must not be easy.
Therefore, Dubs fans, you need not worry. Steve Kerr seems to have it all under control. You wouldn’t expect any less of the man who’s led the Warriors to 4 championships!
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