Following a week filled with training camp practices introducing new set plays and terminology, the Warriors put their developments to the test.
In the first half, where the starters participated, Golden State emerged victorious with a score of 53 to 49. They effectively utilized transition plays, demonstrating the strategies they had been practicing while experimenting with various lineup combinations. Both teams faced challenges shooting from beyond the arc, but the Warriors’ defense was somewhat sharper than that of the Clippers when both teams were at full strength.
“After a week, I can see the identity of this team taking shape,” Warriors head coach Steve Kerr remarked to reporters after the game, via The San Francisco Chronicle. “We sense we have the potential to be significantly more impactful defensively than we’ve been over the past couple of years. If we can leverage our defense to spur fast breaks… that’s an effective approach.”
Golden State tallied 22 fast-break points and created 21 turnovers, though many occurred while the reserves were on the floor.
As the game reached its critical moments, both teams had their non-rostered and two-way players on the court. For the Warriors, this meant rookie center Quinten Post handled the ball, which ultimately did not pan out well. He committed two turnovers while Golden State was down by a single point.
Following two unsuccessful inbounds plays, Lindy Waters III made the game-winning three-pointer as time expired, securing a 91-90 victory for the Warriors at the Stan Sheriff Center at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Waters hit five three-pointers, led all scorers with 15 points, and was immediately greeted with a chest bump from Steph Curry after his clutch shot.
Now, after a week in Hawaii, the Warriors are returning to the mainland. Here are three key takeaways from Golden State’s win.
The starting look
Steve Kerr advised reporters against reading too much into the lineup combinations, especially concerning the starters during the preseason. He noted that the starting five in the first preseason game is unlikely to be the same as for the regular season opener.
However… it could be.
The Warriors started with Steph Curry, De’Anthony Melton, Jonathan Kuminga, Draymond Green, and Trayce Jackson-Davis against the Clippers. With Andrew Wiggins sidelined due to illness, Kuminga was nearly a guaranteed choice. Melton, noted for his defensive abilities and3-point shooting history, should complement Curry effectively in the backcourt.
The Warriors aim to have a center—likely Jackson-Davis—playing alongside Green. The question remains how effectively Kuminga, a low-volume shooter at 34.1% from beyond the arc, can fit into this lineup.
Kuminga identifies as a small forward, a position he has played throughout his career. His ability to shoot well from three-point range may influence whether he stays in that position or transitions back to power forward—the position Kerr believes suits him best.
“We need to evaluate,” Kerr mentioned to reporters before the game in Honolulu. “Last year, we didn’t feel confident pursuing that path. We’d like to use Draymond at the four, and having Trayce beside him provides a shot-blocking presence. We want to utilize JK. If he’s prepared to play the three effectively and it synergizes with the other guys, we’ll adapt accordingly. Now is the time to experiment with these combinations and discover what works.”
Kerr allowed this group a seven-minute opportunity to prove themselves at the game’s start. Green and Jackson-Davis were particularly effective defensively, generating turnovers and altering shots near the rim. The unit also showcased excellent athleticism, frequently pushing the pace—most memorably with a Kuminga dunk and a Jackson-Davis alley-oop, both focal points for the Warriors.
While the starting five fell behind early, they orchestrated a 9-0 run driven by solid defense and fast breaks. Although the spacing was less than ideal and they missed Brandin Podziemski’s playmaking, the starters generally managed well.
How much can Moody prove in the preseason?
As anticipated, Moody was the 11th player to take the court for the Warriors, meaning he’ll be the 12th man once Wiggins returns. Few coaches prefer to use a 12-man rotation.
Consequently, Moody finds himself once more in a challenging position—through no fault of his own.
Upon his arrival on the court, Moody made an immediate impact. He blocked a shot, then cut to the basket for a dunk following a well-placed pass from Kuminga. A stolen pass and a subsequent foul followed, and shortly thereafter, he sank a pull-up three-pointer and a catch-and-shoot three from the corner. In his eight minutes of play, the Warriors outscored their opponents by 11.
Moody opened the second half by getting to the free-throw line, then knocked down a pull-up jumper after making his defender stumble in isolation. This added to his total of 12 points in as many minutes. He quickly sought out his 3-point opportunities—a key focus for him over the offseason—and converted a steal that led to a fast-break opportunity.
Moody concluded the game with 12 points in 13 minutes, achieving a game-high +14. He shot 4-for-9 and contributed two steals, a block, and four rebounds.
Who’s going to get to the rim?
The Warriors implemented a platoon substitution, bringing in Brandin Podziemski, Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, Gary Payton II, and Kevon Looney after the starters.
This lineup might not see much playing time together throughout the season. However, it raises a crucial question: When Curry and Kuminga are not on the floor, who will apply pressure on the rim in the half-court set?
After a pair of free throws from Anderson, the Warriors launched five consecutive three-point attempts. While none were terrible looks, they indicated a lack of penetration into the paint.
In transition, Golden State had no trouble accessing shots at the rim, yet the half-court offense told a different story. Twelve of the team’s first twenty field goal attempts were from beyond the arc. Perhaps the new sets and added structure the team has been developing will improve this aspect.
Kerr has expressed that the Warriors aim to remain a high-volume three-point shooting team. Yet, there is always a balance to strike.
Originally Published: October 5, 2024 at 6:32 p.m.
Warriors Showcase Progress in Preseason Opener with Last-Minute Victory Over Clippers
Game Overview
In an exhilarating preseason opener, the Golden State Warriors demonstrated their growth and adaptability by clinching a narrow victory against the Los Angeles Clippers. The game, held at the Chase Center, ended with a score of 108-106, highlighting the Warriors’ resilience and strategic prowess as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season.
Key Highlights of the Game
- Last-Minute Heroics: The Warriors executed a flawless final play, allowing them to secure the win in the closing seconds.
- Strong Performances: Several players stepped up, showcasing their skills and determination, which bode well for the team’s chemistry moving forward.
- Defensive Adjustments: The team’s defense showed marked improvement, particularly in crunch time, limiting the Clippers to just two points in the last two minutes.
Statistical Breakdown
| Player | Points | Rebounds | Assists</th |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stephen Curry | 29 | 5 | 7 |
| Klay Thompson | 24 | 4 | 3 |
| Draymond Green | 10 | 8 | 5 |
| Jordan Poole | 15 | 3 | 2 |
Player Performances
Stephen Curry
As the team’s leader, Curry displayed his trademark shooting accuracy and playmaking ability. His 29 points came from a mix of three-pointers and driving layups, exemplifying his versatility. Curry’s seven assists were crucial in facilitating ball movement, showcasing his vision on the court.
Klay Thompson
Thompson’s return from injury was a highlight, as he dropped 24 points with impressive shooting from beyond the arc. His defense on the perimeter was equally notable, helping to limit the Clippers’ outside shooting.
Draymond Green
Green’s contributions were felt on both ends of the court. With 10 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists, he provided the necessary grit and leadership that the Warriors needed, especially in tight situations.
Jordan Poole
Poole added a spark off the bench with 15 points, showing off his ability to drive to the basket and create offense, which is a promising sign for the Warriors’ bench depth.
Coaching Strategies and Adjustments
Head Coach Steve Kerr emphasized the importance of implementing effective game strategies early in the season. His adjustments during the game, particularly in the fourth quarter, were pivotal in the Warriors’ comeback. Kerr’s adaptability in rotating players to maintain energy levels proved beneficial as they faced the Clippers’ fast-paced offense.
Defensive Improvements
The Warriors’ defensive performance was a focal point leading into the game. The team managed to hold the Clippers to a mere 40% shooting percentage, a testament to their improved defensive schemes. Key defensive plays in the final minutes were critical in stifling the Clippers’ attempts to regain the lead.
Looking Ahead
As the Warriors look ahead to the regular season, several takeaways from this preseason opener can set the tone for their campaign:
- Team Chemistry: The seamless integration of players returning from injuries and new additions to the roster is essential for a strong start.
- Focus on Defense: Continuing to build on defensive strategies will be crucial as they face tougher opponents in the regular season.
- Offensive Versatility: The ability to adapt their offensive strategies based on opponent weaknesses will be a key area of focus.
Fan Reactions and Atmosphere
The atmosphere at the Chase Center was electric, with fans expressing excitement for the new season. The last-minute victory not only showcased the team’s potential but also reignited the enthusiasm of the fanbase. Social media buzzed with reactions, highlighting the Warriors’ resilience and determination.
Conclusion
The Golden State Warriors’ last-minute victory over the Los Angeles Clippers in their preseason opener sends a clear message: they are ready to compete. With strong individual performances, strategic coaching, and a focus on defensive improvement, the Warriors are poised for a successful NBA season. As they continue to build momentum, expectations remain high for their return to championship contention.
