Steve Kerr reacts to Warriors’ Game 2 Loss to Timberwolves

In a tough Game 2, the Golden State Warriors fell 117-93 to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday night, leaving the Western Conference semifinal series tied at 1-1. Despite the loss, head coach Steve Kerr was candid about the team’s adjustments, challenges, and valuable lessons learned in the absence of Stephen Curry.

“We played a lot of guys, 13 or 14 in the first half,” Kerr explained. “Part of it was the fatigue from the recent travel and games, and part of it was figuring out how we can manage this series without Steph.”

Kerr acknowledged that players like Jonathan Kuminga and Trayce Jackson-Davis stepped up with strong performances. Kuminga posted 18 points, while Jackson-Davis added 15, both shooting efficiently from the floor. “Their athleticism was important, especially in our spirited run,” Kerr noted. The Warriors rallied from a 13-0 deficit to trim the lead to seven, but turnovers and defensive lapses prevented them from closing the gap further.

Addressing the absence of Curry, Kerr said the team’s offensive strategy shifted without their star guard. “It’s not as simple as replacing Steph with one player,” Kerr said. “We need to figure out what the next formula is.” He also pointed to the importance of developing a rotation that can help replace Curry’s contributions.

Kerr expressed confidence in Kuminga’s and Jackson-Davis’ roles moving forward in the series. “Both guys are going to play a role,” Kerr confirmed. “They’ve proven they can help us win.”

While Curry’s absence led to lineup changes, Kerr found solace in the leadership displayed from the bench. “Steph was great,” he said. “He sat a couple of seats down, talked to the guys, and was a calming presence when we needed it.”

One moment Kerr highlighted was Draymond Green’s near altercation with Naz Reid. Kerr took Green out to prevent a technical foul, noting the importance of keeping him composed, especially as he’s two techs away from a suspension. “We need Draymond. He’s got to stay poised,” Kerr remarked.

On Moses Moody’s struggles, Kerr remained patient, acknowledging the challenges of the postseason. “He’s in a rough stretch,” Kerr said, “but we’ll stick with him. His work ethic and character will get him back on track.”

Looking ahead to Game 3 in San Francisco, Kerr was resolute despite the tough loss. “We came here, split the first two games, and we’re heading home,” he said. “Minnesota played a great game, but we’ll respond.”

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