Curry’s Heroics Overshadowed by Warriors’ Late Collapse
On Sunday night at Moda Center, Stephen Curry delivered a stunning performance, scoring 48 points, yet it wasn’t enough to secure a victory for the Golden State Warriors, who fell to the Portland Trail Blazers, 136-131. This loss marks a troubling trend for the Warriors (13-14) amid escalating trade rumors and questions about their roster’s composition.
Curry’s brilliance included making 12 three-pointers—a record fifth time in his career—and becoming the sole leader for the most games scoring 40-plus points after turning 30, surpassing the legendary Michael Jordan. However, the Warriors’ defensive lapses down the stretch ultimately cost them the game, as the Blazers (10-16) capitalized on their opportunities with Shaedon Sharpe and Jerami Grant each contributing 35 points, showcasing Portland’s impressive shooting performance at 20-of-39 from beyond the arc.
Warriors’ Late Game Fragility Exposed
With just 2:30 remaining, Curry’s back-to-back plays—a three-pointer followed by a driving layup—gave Golden State a five-point advantage. Yet, this would be the high point of the evening for the Warriors, as they unraveled in the final moments. The Blazers ignited a decisive closing run, beginning with a three from Grant. A critical moment occurred when Deni Avdija executed a pick-and-roll with Donovan Clingan, creating space for Grant to score.
Then, in a series of unfortunate events for the Warriors, Brandin Podziemski was penalized for a moving screen while Curry attempted to reposition for another three. Avdija’s next move was a decisive drive past De’Anthony Melton, resulting in a layup and an and-one opportunity. Curry managed to hit another go-ahead three shortly after, but Avdija countered again, assisting Grant for another and-one that flipped the momentum entirely.
The Warriors’ defensive woes were evident. Melton, at 6’2″, struggled against the 6’8″ Avdija, highlighting the team’s lack of a versatile wing defender and a strong rim protector in clutch moments. The irony is that the Warriors often excel defensively for the majority of the game, only to falter when it matters most.
Trade Talks Heat Up as Solutions Needed
With the deadline for trades looming, the Warriors’ need for personnel adjustments is becoming increasingly apparent. Ideal candidates like Herb Jones, a 6’7″ wing defender, and Myles Turner, a 6’11” rim protector, could address the team’s vulnerabilities. However, acquiring such talent may hinge on trading Jonathan Kuminga, an option not available until January 15. For now, the Warriors are left to navigate the next month, hoping to stabilize their performance before making any moves.
Draymond Green’s Struggles Compound Team Issues
As Curry lit up the scoreboard in the third quarter, connecting on four three-pointers, Draymond Green’s performance starkly contrasted his teammate’s brilliance. During six pivotal minutes, Green struggled significantly, committing turnovers that directly led to Portland points.
Green’s inability to maintain composure in critical moments became a liability. He recorded eight turnovers in the game, a number that looms large as the Warriors continue to fight for consistency. While Curry shined with 12 points and no turnovers during this stretch, Green’s performance stifled the Warriors’ momentum.
The need for Green to address his turnover issues is urgent. If the Warriors are to find success this season, they must rely not just on Curry’s scoring but on Green’s ability to facilitate and minimize mistakes.
Integrating Butler into the Offense
In the late game push, the Warriors leaned heavily on Curry, but the lack of involvement from Jimmy Butler raised eyebrows. Butler finished the game shooting a mere 3-of-11, and the absence of designed plays for him down the stretch became apparent.
While some may point to Butler needing to assert himself more, it’s crucial for the coaching staff to create opportunities for him to score. In moments when Sidy Cissoko pressured him physically, Butler responded by attacking the mismatch, earning free throws and improving the flow of the offense. A more aggressive Butler could add another layer to the Warriors’ strategy, particularly as they aim to minimize turnovers and enhance their scoring efficiency.
The Warriors find themselves at a crossroads. With Curry’s extraordinary talent shining through in moments, the team’s overall structure and late-game execution need urgent attention. As they grapple with their identity, the clock is ticking toward potential trades that could reshape the roster and reinvigorate their season.
