Warriors crumble without Stephen Curry and Draymond Green against Rockets

In recent games, the Golden State Warriors faced significant challenges due to injuries to key players Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. Stephen Curry, a two-time MVP, was dealing with discomfort in both knees. After an MRI, it was concluded that there was no structural damage, but his ongoing issues led to him missing games. Draymond Green, a pivotal player in the Warriors' success, was sidelined due to tightness in his left calf. This setback came at a critical juncture, as the Warriors had lost five consecutive games before playing against the Houston Rockets, all by narrow margins of 10 points or less. With Curry and Green unavailable, the Warriors turned their focus on Jonathan Kuminga, their 2021 first-round pick. Coach Steve Kerr, recognizing the need for the team to assess Kuminga's potential, started him alongside Buddy Hield in the absence of the two stars. This change represents a strategic pivot for the Warriors, who are looking to explore the heights of Kuminga's ceiling and lay the groundwork for the future. Warriors players and coaches expressed hope that significant playing time for Kuminga could potentially reveal his All-Star capability over the course of the season. The team's decision to lean into Kuminga’s development is crucial as Curry is aging in his 16th NBA season. As he is not getting younger, the Warriors need to establish a reliable foundation for the team's future. Conversations around Curry's management will become routine, with the training staff continuously assessing his condition to mitigate any long-term injuries. Players like Curry and Green, both crucial to the team's identity and success, can't be expected to play every game without setbacks. Over the long haul, Kerr's strategy could lead to increased performance from the team if young players like Kuminga are provided with the necessary experience to navigate high-pressure situations. Kuminga has shown potential, and Kerr acknowledged that the team needs to find effective ways to unlock his skills and maximize his impact in the games. This new direction emphasizes the Warriors' commitment to grooming Kuminga while still aiming for competitive performance during the current season.