The Golden State Warriors dominated the Chicago Bulls 123-91 on Sunday at the United Center, marking their second consecutive win without Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. Coach Steve Kerr highlighted the team’s defensive effort and ball movement as key factors in the rout.
“The first quarter was absolutely beautiful basketball,” Kerr said, noting how spacing and ball movement created open shots and allowed the Warriors to crash the boards, finishing with 15 offensive rebounds. Gui Santos contributed three or four of those boards, showcasing the impact of bench energy.
Kerr emphasized the team’s recent defensive success, marking the third straight game holding an opponent under 100 points. “I think we’re taking away more of the easy stuff… doing a better job containing penetration and helping each other,” he said, crediting energy and teamwork for the strong performance.
The Warriors shot 50% from the field and made 22 of 47 three-point attempts, with seven players connecting from beyond the arc. Brandin Podziemski led the bench with 21 points, while Jimmy Butler returned to the lineup with 19 points, and Quinten Post added 19 points with five threes.
Kerr addressed rotation decisions, including Jonathan Kuminga’s DNP, stressing the need for competition and depth: “It happens to everybody… we get Steph back, Pat playing at the level he is, BP’s picked it up, and Melt is a hell of a player… it creates competition.” He praised Buddy Hield’s resilience, citing his performance after a red-eye flight to Philadelphia.
The coach also reflected on the team’s potential pivot point with the schedule easing up. “We’re in a good spot… starting to feel like the team we’re supposed to be,” Kerr said, adding that the Warriors aim to maintain momentum through the next stretch of games.
Chicago struggled without key players Kevin Huerter, Tre Jones, Isaac Okoro, and Jalen Smith, shooting just 36% and being out-rebounded 51-38. Josh Giddey led the Bulls with 18 points, while Matas Buzelis added 16. The Warriors built a 16-point lead early and pushed the margin to 24 in the second half before cruising to the final score.
Golden State will look to extend its win streak to three when it hosts the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday, while the Bulls aim to break their skid against the Charlotte Hornets.
