Stephen Curry was pleased with the Golden State Warriors’ response to an 0-3 start but stressed that the team still needs to improve its ball security and execution after Wednesday’s 119-114 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves.
“We still have a lot of things to do, but like we always say, you like learning lessons while you’re winning,” Curry said after scoring a season-high 44 points. “Two and one road trip is great. That’s a step in the right direction.”
The Warriors won their second consecutive game, but Minnesota cut a 24-point deficit to four in the fourth quarter. Curry acknowledged that Golden State made the finish more difficult than necessary.
“This one was a little more nerve-wracking than it should have been,” Curry said. “There’s a slight bit of relief, but there’s still an understanding that the Memphis game, the second half tonight, mostly the fourth quarter, we know we can play better.”
Curry said the team must remain composed when opponents increase their defensive pressure rather than rushing possessions and relying on difficult shots.
“I think we’re pretty aware of ball security,” he said. “Being able to get the ball down the floor, get into our spots, you know, down the stretch when teams turn up pressure has got to be something we focus on.”
Curry finished with 44 points on 11-of-27 shooting, including six 3-pointers, while making all 16 of his free throws. He also recorded eight rebounds and six assists.
The veteran guard explained that Golden State’s offensive approach was built around reading the defense and creating opportunities through movement, screens and pick-and-roll actions.
“Every game it’s just taking what the defense gives you, making the right reads,” Curry said. “It was kind of cool because I got shots up and we were still moving the ball and getting open threes, pocket passes, all of that.”
He also praised Draymond Green for accepting the challenge of playing center more frequently, helping the Warriors manage their frontcourt rotation.
“He’s being a true professional, getting himself ready to play, playing way above his size like he always does, taking on those challenges,” Curry said.
Curry also offered encouragement to Minnesota star Anthony Edwards, who is expected to miss extended time after arthroscopic surgery on his right knee.
“You just got to do what you can with the rehab,” Curry said. “Attack it the same way you do getting ready for games. Get your body as bulletproof as possible, knowing that stuff happens, injuries happen.”
Curry added that he hopes Edwards can return to his previous level after averaging 33.3 points through Minnesota’s first four games.
The Warriors host the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday, while the Timberwolves welcome the Los Angeles Clippers.
