UPDATE: The Golden State Warriors are grappling with a critical size issue following their 127-123 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers at Chase Center on November 10, 2023. Missing key players, the Warriors were dominated on the boards, surrendering 21 offensive rebounds and a staggering 28 second-chance points, exposing their vulnerabilities.
The defeat highlights a pressing concern for the Warriors as they struggle to maintain competitiveness, now sitting at 9-9 this season. Coach Steve Kerr did not hold back, stating, “That’s the game,” pointing to the significant impact of second-chance points on the outcome. The absence of Al Horford due to hamstring tightness further exacerbated their struggles, leaving the team undersized against the Blazers’ towering lineup.
The Blazers, despite missing several key guards, showcased their athleticism with players like Donovan Clingan at 7-3 and Robert Williams at 6-11, overpowering the Warriors’ frontcourt. Steph Curry, standing at 6-3, lamented the team’s need to “play bigger” as they attempted to counter the Blazers’ height advantage.
The Warriors’ current roster inadequacies have been glaring, particularly as they were outrebounded 52-32. “We’re just not guarding anybody,” said Jimmy Butler, reflecting on the team’s defensive lapses. With Jonathan Kuminga missing his fifth consecutive game, the Warriors are left to reassess their strategy.
Kerr is hopeful that the upcoming week, which includes five games in 12 days, will provide the team with the opportunity to practice and refine their game. Interestingly, he mentioned considering a return to Quinten Post to bolster the team’s size. “We’ll just have to get a good gauge on our team here during this coming week,” he stated.
As the Warriors prepare to face the Utah Jazz, Houston Rockets, and New Orleans Pelicans in the coming days, the urgency for improvement has never been more critical. Fans and analysts alike are keenly watching how the Warriors will address their glaring size and defensive issues. Will the adjustments in practice make a tangible difference? Time will tell, but the Warriors must act swiftly to regain their footing in a highly competitive season.
