As we approach the end of December, the 2024-25 NBA regular season has completed just over a quarter of its schedule. During this period, the Golden State Warriors have experienced significant ups and downs in their performance. In the recently concluded Christmas Day game, the Warriors fell short against the Lakers with a score of 113-115. Statistics show that in their last 14 games, the Warriors have only managed 3 wins and 11 losses, compared to their strong start of the season where they won 12 out of their first 15 games. Their next game will be an away match against the Clippers (the Warriors are currently 0-2 against the Clippers this year), and another loss would mirror their season-opening record of 12-3 with a dismal 3-12.
The Warriors' recent poor form is somewhat attributed to their tactics being more thoroughly analyzed by opponents. Steve Kerr's player selection and strategic decisions have often been criticized by fans. They argue that Kerr is too stubborn and inflexible, overly trusting certain players, which has led to the team struggling. Examples include Kerr's rotation of 13 players, his three-guard tactic, and his blind trust in Bjelica, all of which have been points of contention.
Another point of confusion for fans is Kerr's apparent lack of trust in Otto Porter Jr. During the offseason, Porter joined the Golden State Warriors through a sign-and-trade deal, signing a three-year contract worth $27 million. Last season, he was a key rotational player for the Timberwolves, performing exceptionally well. Logically, his addition should have significantly helped and improved the Warriors. However, under Kerr, Porter has even lost his playing time.
In the Christmas Day game against the Lakers, Porter was once again benched by Kerr. He was DNP (Did Not Play) for the second consecutive game, firmly seated on the bench. Is Porter really playing poorly? Absolutely not. Statistics indicate that in games where Porter played more than 14 minutes this season, the Warriors had a record of 12 wins and 5 losses, with a win rate of 70.6%; in games where he played less than 14 minutes, the Warriors only managed 3 wins and 9 losses (including 1 win and 3 losses in the 4 DNP games), with a win rate of 25%.
From actual on-court performance to personal statistics and advanced metrics, Porter has been quite good. When he is on the court, the Warriors' offense and defense are well-organized. Yet, Kerr prefers to give Bojan Bogdanovic substantial playing time rather than spare even a minute for Porter. In the last two games, Porter was directly benched. This obstinate approach to player usage is truly detrimental to both the Warriors and Stephen Curry.
Some fans have even called for Kerr's dismissal, stating that the Warriors will never find peace until he steps down. The Warriors are about to face a tough stretch of games. If Kerr remains as stubborn as ever, it would not be unjust if they were to suffer another losing streak. If the Warriors are unwilling to use Porter, they should let him go; don't hold back a good player!