The Golden State Warriors got back in the win column on Sunday, Nov. 9, defeating the Indiana Pacers 114-83. Golden State had lost its previous two games and came into the night with a 5-5 record.
During his postgame news conference, Kerr admitted that while his team performed well, they’re still searching for their identity.
“Overall, we haven’t played real well,” Kerr said. “But, I’m very confident in this team. It’s going to be a tough trip. As you mentioned, two back-to-backs. We felt like getting through this part of this schedule in one piece…It’s sets up the season well for us…I can picture the team, I can see what kind of team we’re gonna be. But, we don’t really have our identity yet.”
The Warriors started the season with purpose. However, a gruelling schedule to begin the year sapped some of the energy out of the rotation. Getting a win over the Pacers should help provide some momentum and give the roster a platform to continue finding its footing.
Al Horford Credits Jimmy Butler For Big Night
Al Horford had his best offensive game in a Warriors jersey on Sunday. The veteran center ended the night with 12 points on 4-of-6 shooting from deep. He also provided 4 rebounds, an assist and 3 blocks.
When speaking to the media after the game, Horford credited Jimmy Butler for how he hunted out opportunities to get him the rock behind the arc.
“Jimmy, right away, was making it clear to look for me,” Horford said. “A few times, he had layups, and he was kicking out and encouraging me to shoot the ball. The passes were there, they were on the money. I credit a lot of that to him, for kind of getting me going offensively.”
Horford joined the Warriors earlier this summer, having left the Boston Celtics at the end of his contract. And, while Horford has struggled to find his rhythm on offense, the defensive boost he’s provided Kerr’s team has been noticeable all season.
Warriors Expect Curry Back on Tuesday
Golden State was once again without Stephen Curry on Sunday, as he continues to recover from flu-like symptoms. Curry has now missed Golden State’s last three games.
According to ESPN’s Anthony Slater, the Warriors are hopeful of having their superstar point guard back in the rotation on Tuesday, when they face the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Curry has played in eight games this season, averaging 26.8 points, 3.6 rebounds and 4.3 assists. He’s shooting 45.4% from the field and 38.9% from 3-point range with a 95.3% conversion rate at the free-throw line.
Golden State will need Curry’s movement and floor spacing if they’re going to stand a chance against the reigning NBA champions. However, it will remain to be seen whether Curry will be playing on a minutes restriction or will be cleared to step straight back into his 31.1 minutes per game.
Golden State now sits eighth in the Western Conference, with a 6-5 record following its win over Indiana. The Thunder are first in the West, having dropped just one game out of their opening 11. Kerr’s team will have its work cut out on Tuesday.
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