With a spectacular three-pointer during the fourth quarter of the game on December 3, 2023, in Portland, Steph Curry made history by surpassing Michael Jordan for the most 40-point games after turning 30. Despite his individual brilliance, the Golden State Warriors fell short against the Portland Trail Blazers, losing 136-131.
Curry’s performance was extraordinary. He scored 48 points and hit twelve three-pointers, setting a record for the most games with at least 12 three-pointers. He now has five such games, while Klay Thompson follows with three, and no other player has more than one. This accomplishment highlights Curry’s unprecedented scoring ability, especially considering that nearly 5,000 players have graced the NBA, yet none have achieved this feat at such an advanced age.
Despite his record-breaking night, the Warriors’ struggles continued. They now hold a disappointing record of 5-9 in “clutch” games, defined by the NBA as those where the score is within five points in the final five minutes. Although Curry contributed significantly, he also faced criticism for a missed layup and a crucial turnover at the end of the game, marking a season characterized by inconsistency.
The Warriors have faced persistent issues throughout the season. Turnovers have been a significant problem, with the team committing 18 against the Blazers. Additionally, they rank a low 19th in rebounding, an impressive feat considering the injuries to their frontcourt. Their inability to create shots inside the arc is evident, as they sit last in the league with an average of 23.7 made two-point shots per game.
The defensive challenges are equally concerning. The Warriors have struggled to contain opponents, particularly those who rely on dribble-drive plays. This was apparent against the younger, more athletic Blazers, who exploited Golden State’s defensive lapses. Players like Deni Avdija, Shaedon Sharpe, and Jerami Grant took advantage of the Warriors’ slow rotations, contributing significantly to their offensive success.
Coach Steve Kerr faces a daunting task in addressing these issues. Following the game, he expressed frustration over the missed opportunity. Despite Curry’s record-setting performance, Kerr emphasized that winning is paramount. “When you make 24 threes, and Steph makes 12 of them, you should win the game,” he stated, acknowledging the need for better connection and cohesion within the team.
Kerr has utilized nine different starting lineups in the season, indicating a lack of stability that has affected the team’s chemistry. The Warriors recently held opponents to under 100 points for three consecutive games, but they have since allowed over 120 points in back-to-back losses, highlighting a stark contrast in their defensive capabilities.
Curry also weighed in on the team’s performance, attributing the defeats to poor execution. “We’re not executing well enough for 48 minutes, and there’s a lot of things you can point at,” he remarked. The frustration among players is palpable, with Draymond Green emphasizing the need for change if the current trajectory continues. “If you’re not winning, you have to change something,” he stated, underscoring the urgency to find solutions.
As the Warriors navigate these challenges, the pressure mounts to translate individual brilliance into team success. Until they address their shortcomings, the team may continue to struggle despite Curry’s outstanding achievements. The road ahead is crucial for Golden State, with the need for adjustments evident in every game.
