It looks like the Golden State Warriors can’t function without Stephen Curry. The team has toiled to make a mark, with Curry missing three games because of a Grade 1 hamstring strain. Draymond Green demands his players step up, and the Warriors lacked conviction in all four games.
The San Francisco franchise’s offense looks toothless, and Jimmy Butler III struggles to execute. Buddy Hield had an off night, as the Warriors could use Curry now.
The point guard’s return date is unknown, but he could be there for Game 5, with the Timberwolves having a chance to close out the series. However, Green stated that the Warriors are in a jittery situation right now and that rushing Curry is not an option.
Draymond Green Wants Warriors Players To Step Up in Stephen Curry’s Absence
In the post-game press conference, Green mentioned, “We don’t need Superman. Play the long game. If he can, we know he will. There’s no pressure. But we gotta figure out a way to win whether he plays or not.”
Without Curry, the Warriors are 91-152 all-time, which shows his influence on the team. The Warriors have lost the last three games without Curry in the playoffs, with the Timberwolves taking full advantage.
The team’s struggling to get it going in the playoffs with Anthony Edwards and Co. running riot. Barring Game 4, the first three games have been a problem for the Warriors in this playoff series. Curry left with a hamstring injury in Game 1, and somehow, they managed to win after he put up some points.
But if you look at those first three games, the Warriors had a turnover percentage of 16.4, an eFG% of 49.8, and quite possibly the most significant number, the offensive rating as low as 103.5. In the meantime, the Timberwolves have an offensive rating of 110.0 compared to the Warriors.
It shows the Warriors’ offensive struggles, with Jonathan Kuminga the only player to put in a show. He had 23 points, shooting 11-12 free throws to help the Warriors stay in the game. With Curry’s appearance in doubt, the other players must step up.
Butler shoots a low 44.1% from the field, averaging 21.0 points, and does not attack the basket often. He’s playing Curry’s role of becoming the facilitator, but he usually tries to find his teammates rather than going for shots, which he is competent at.
Likewise, Hield’s consistency remains an issue. He has averaged 16.5 points in this series and has gone hot or cold in games. Apart from Game 1, Hield struggled in the next three games, even last night when he couldn’t score points.
To sum up, Curry’s absence has hurt the Warriors. But elite teams find a way to unlock any defenses. The old-school Warriors could have had a say in Game 5, but without Curry, the Warriors look set to exit the playoffs.
