The Golden State Warriors faced another setback, succumbing to a 114-110 defeat in a pivotal matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
However, it was a decision made by Warriors head coach, Steve Kerr, regarding superstar point guard Steph Curry"s playing time that sparked controversy and raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.
Despite the Warriors holding a six-point advantage during Curry"s 29 minutes and 50 seconds on the court, Kerr opted to limit his playing time, a move that drew scrutiny post-game.
Addressing the decision in the post-game press conference, Kerr shed light on the rationale behind the move, citing the team"s strategy to prioritize Curry"s rest amidst a grueling schedule.
“We"re trying to keep him around 30 [minutes]," explained Kerr. “We"re trying to get him as much rest as we can. We"ve played him a lot of minutes. We played him 35 two days ago."
Steve Kerr says he can’t keep riding Steph
"We can’t expect to just ride Steph. We’ve put the burden of this franchise on his shoulders for 15 years … If you want to say that him playing 30 minutes instead of 32 is a difference in a win and a loss, I totally disagree with… pic.twitter.com/HbpINk1N7j
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) March 25, 2024
Furthermore, Kerr emphasized the immense burden Curry has shouldered for the franchise throughout his illustrious 15-year career, suggesting the need for a strategic approach to manage his workload effectively.
“You can"t expect to ride Steph game after game after game," Kerr remarked, acknowledging the need for a balanced approach to preserve Curry"s longevity and productivity.
Curry, when questioned about the decision, admitted to being somewhat surprised but remained resolute in his commitment to the team"s goals.
“The situation will define itself pretty clearly – it is in real time," Curry stated. “Every game matters. We"re inching closer to the other end of the standings… Nobody is gonna wave the white flag. If that means playing more minutes, I"ll be ready to do that."
As the Warriors find themselves precariously positioned just one game ahead of the 11th-seed Houston Rockets, the urgency to secure a playoff spot intensifies.
With the season"s end looming, Kerr"s decision to manage Curry"s minutes underscores the team"s determination to navigate the challenges ahead while prioritizing their star player"s well-being.
