The Golden State Warriors secured a 111-95 victory against the New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. This win was particularly significant as it marked the return of star point guard Stephen Curry, who had been sidelined for two games due to a pelvic contusion sustained during a March 20 game against the Toronto Raptors.
Curry’s Comeback Performance
Curry’s return was highly anticipated, and he did not disappoint. Despite a slow start, scoring only two points in the first quarter, Curry found his rhythm, contributing 23 points over 34 minutes of play. He connected on five three-pointers, showcasing his trademark shooting prowess. His performance was instrumental in shifting the game’s momentum in favor of the Warriors.
Team Contributions
Beyond Curry’s efforts, the Warriors received significant contributions from several players. Jimmy Butler III recorded a double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds, providing a strong presence both offensively and defensively. Jonathan Kuminga added 16 points, offering a spark off the bench. Quinten Post also played a pivotal role, contributing 15 points to the Warriors’ cause.
Game Dynamics
The Pelicans began the game with intensity, establishing a 14-2 lead, with Bruce Brown and Jose Alvarado combining for 14 points early on. However, the Warriors gradually regained their composure. A pivotal moment occurred at the start of the third quarter when Brandin Podziemski and Curry each hit three-pointers, giving the Warriors a 55-53 lead. They maintained this advantage for most of the second half, with a decisive 28-13 run in the fourth quarter sealing the win.
Coaching Decisions
Warriors’ head coach Steve Kerr exercised caution with Curry’s minutes, especially considering his recent injury and the team’s demanding schedule. Kerr noted that Curry had been experiencing mental and emotional fatigue, affecting his decision-making on the court. Prior to the game against Milwaukee, Kerr stated, “The last three games I think he’s been tired, but it’s more of a mental and emotional fatigue than physical.” He added that when Curry is emotionally tired, it impacts his performance, leading to moments where he appears “a little bit out of sorts.”
What’s Next
This victory improves the Warriors’ record to 42-31, placing them sixth in the Western Conference standings. With the regular season nearing its end, the Warriors are striving for a top-six seed to avoid the play-in tournament. Their upcoming games will be crucial in determining their playoff positioning.
Conclusion
Stephen Curry’s return has reinvigorated the Warriors, offering a glimpse of their potential as the playoffs approach. The team’s resilience, strategic gameplay, and individual performances underscore their readiness for the challenges ahead. As the season concludes, all eyes will be on the Warriors to see if they can harness this momentum and make a deep playoff run.
