Stephen Curry played one of the worst games of his career on Sunday. He scored only 9 points and 6 assists and missed all 9 of his three-point attempts against the Toronto Raptors. The Warriors got decimated by the Raptors 133-118, with Steph struggling to get anything going in his favor. Golden State will face the New Orleans Pelicans tomorrow, and head coach Steve Kerr has a different strategy for that game.
Kerr revealed that he would no longer let Steph dribble “700 times” and instead utilize his off-the-ball movement amid his recent struggles.
Steve Kerr addresses Stephen Curry’s struggles
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr talked about Stephen Curry’s recent offensive struggles and his abysmal shooting night against the Toronto Raptors. “He’s not James Harden or Luka. We’re not just gonna run a high pick-and-roll and spread the floor, and he’s gonna dribble 700 times. That’s not his game. He has to thrive off the ball just as well as he does on the ball,” Kerr said.
Steph is one of the best off-the-ball players in NBA history. He is constantly moving without the ball to get away from his defender and find an opening. However, Kerr accepted that the recent combinations he has put on the floor with Steph have had a tough time understanding Steph’s style of play.
Kerr also claimed that Steph is carrying the Warriors franchise on his back, and that is not easy. “We’ve thrown a ton on his shoulders. The burden that Steph Curry has on him for this franchise is unfair,” The head coach added. The Baby-Faced Assassin has been the leader of the Warriors franchise for over a decade. And there are bound to be some off nights and fatigue when a superstar does everything for his team.
Draymond Green’s return might unleash Stephen Curry again
Even though Draymond Green is not the most productive player on the stat sheet, his impact on the Warriors franchise goes beyond his stats. He has been the co-captain of the Warriors ship with Curry ever since they joined forces. With Draymond being the vocal leader in the locker room, Curry could focus on his on-court performance and winning games. Kerr claimed Draymond’s absence has also taken a toll on Steph.
That is why Draymond’s return from suspension can unleash Steph once again. Green understands Steph’s playing style and has been an amazing playmaker for the Warriors throughout his career. Draymond’s return will take the load off Curry’s shoulders. That will allow Steph to play more freely and focus on turning the Warriors season around.
