Stephen Curry downplayed the bench exchange between Draymond Green and Steve Kerr during Monday’s 120-97 win over the Orlando Magic, saying, “They just having a good conversation. It’s kind of for them to talk about, not me, as the leader of the team.”
On whether Green leaving the bench could linger, Curry added, “I don’t think so…we know how to be professional.”
Curry credited the team’s collective effort in the second half for the decisive win, stating, “Our intentions were good on offense to try to move the ball, move bodies, get organized…if you had a shot, you shoot it. If you got a driving angle, take it. If you don’t have anything, swing it. It was a good concerted effort no matter if shots were falling or not.”
Reflecting on the team’s mood through 30 games, Curry said, “It’s a little up and down as I’m sure any team that’s 500 experiences…we’re excited that we’re putting some good efforts together…just excited for another big game on Christmas Day and hopefully we can keep it going.”
Discussing rotations, Curry explained, “I think it’s a reflection of trying to put people in position to be successful…our style of me, Jimmy, and Draymond can play together all the time because we know each other so well…we just have to understand what we’re trying to do with whoever’s on the floor.”
On responding to Green’s absence, Curry said, “There’s a sense of urgency when he’s not out there because our margin for error goes down…we feel like we’re playing better than our record shows because we can respond. We were resilient being able to respond the last two games.”
Curry highlighted Buddy Hield’s contribution off the bench, noting, “You love to see one go in for him…he’s a professional. He gets his work in and stays mentally locked in.”
Regarding Brandin Podziemski’s plus-36 impact, Curry said, “He’s such a unique player…he tries to make winning plays. Tonight it was hustle, energy…loose balls, offensive rebounds. As a young guy, we need that.”
Curry also emphasized the team’s ability to channel frustration positively, adding, “Experience and frustration without getting rattled…you can’t panic or start turning on each other. Our conversations in the huddles and locker room have been positive, trying to figure it out rather than pointing fingers.”
On his own shooting rhythm, Curry reflected, “Getting my feet underneath me, get to my spots…I was confident in the shots I was taking. Come out in the second half, take the same shots…whether they go in or not, it’s a law of averages.”
