The Golden State Warriors have suffered another crushing defeat, which has seen them drop from eighth to ninth in the Western Conference standings, making their hopes of reaching the playoffs increasingly slim. Fans' emotions have shifted from initial anticipation to disappointment and anger.
In particular, the team's performance in this game can be described as "self-inflicted." The lineup featuring three or four guards was once again deployed, offering little advantage against taller opponents. By the third quarter, the Warriors were trailing by 30 points, effectively sealing their fate in the match. Ultimately, they could only watch helplessly as their opponents clinched victory, while they were forced to surrender.
What is even more concerning is that head coach Steve Kerr seems unperturbed despite the team's consecutive losses. Despite the dimming prospects for the team, he remains steadfast in his three-guard strategy, treating the outcome of the game as a minor episode in life.
Fans are divided in their opinions, with many calling for him to step down, believing that under the current circumstances, the Warriors need new guidance and tactical direction. In a post-game interview, Kerr did not offer a clear reflection on the situation. He stated, "Losing is a common occurrence in the NBA; you must accept defeat as much as you enjoy victory." While this statement carries some philosophical weight, fans' patience is wearing thin.
Kerr himself admits that the team lacked energy during the game and did not execute according to his tactical requirements. He mentioned that the "pass-and-cut system requires players to be full of execution and energy." However, if the tactics themselves are flawed, no amount of player effort may be enough to turn the tide.
At this juncture, the Warriors have announced an important message: they are considering hiring former Sacramento Kings head coach Mike Brown to assist the team in improving their defensive tactics. Brown previously served as an assistant coach for the Warriors, is familiar with the team's operations, and has had contact with core players like Curry. This time, Curry also held an official meeting with Brown.
Fans are eagerly anticipating the return of the former Kings coach, believing he can inject new vitality and tactical thinking into the Warriors. Some fans even suggest that Brown should replace Kerr as the new head coach.
A netizen commented on social media, "Seeing Kerr persist with those outdated tactics is driving me crazy! If Brown comes back, at least he'll bring some changes to our defense. If Kerr continues like this, the Warriors will really become the 'Dwarves' team." This comment resonated with many fans, who believe that Kerr's tactics have led the team into difficulties and that fresh blood and ideas are urgently needed.
While Kerr's management style has always been questioned, his philosophy and coaching experience cannot be overlooked. He has led the Warriors to multiple championships, using his unique offensive tactics and team culture to make the Warriors one of the most dominant teams in the league in recent years.
However, as opponents have gradually figured out the Warriors' playing style, coupled with the aging of personnel and injury issues, Kerr seems to have failed to adjust his tactics in response to these changes. The team's weak defense and monotonous offense have caused them to suffer repeatedly against stronger opponents.
Another netizen offered a different perspective: "Kerr is a very experienced coach; it's already quite an achievement to have brought the team this far. Every coach experiences highs and lows; the current low point for the Warriors doesn't necessarily mean Kerr should step down. We need to give him time to adjust the team and find new strategies." There are also many such voices, as Kerr has led the Warriors to create many glorious moments, and many fans still have confidence in him.
Faced with this polarized public opinion, the Warriors' management clearly realizes the severity of the problem. Brown's return seems to signal the team's search for change. If Brown can rejoin the Warriors' coaching staff and help improve the defense, it might breathe new life into the team.
The Warriors' offensive tactics have always been among the most distinctive in the league, but without solid defense as support, relying solely on offense to fight alone is not enough to maintain a foothold in the fiercely competitive West.
Whether the Warriors can emerge from this crisis remains uncertain. In the NBA, changing coaches does not always immediately yield results. Tactical integration takes time, as does adjusting the team's internal atmosphere.
For Kerr, leading the team out of the trough in the upcoming games is what he needs to address most urgently. Fans hope to see not just superficial adjustments but a true return to the Warriors' former vigor, reigniting their competitiveness.
Brown's arrival may be a shot in the arm for the Warriors, but this also depends on the team's execution and adaptability to tactics. Whether Kerr can find a direction for adjustment in the upcoming games and not be overwhelmed by public opinion and pressure has become the focus of all fans.
Another netizen's comment also highlights the current biggest issue: "The Warriors' problem is not just about tactics; it's more about the lack of passion in execution. Perhaps what Kerr needs to do is not just adjust tactics but also ignite the players' fighting spirit, making them understand that relying solely on running three-pointers and cuts won't allow them to stand firm in today's NBA." These words reveal a deeper problem within the Warriors, namely the lack of mentality and execution.
After suffering this crushing defeat, the Warriors face increasingly complex choices and challenges. Whether they continue to trust Kerr or bring in Brown, the key lies in whether the team can truly regain its rhythm and tactics. As for the fans, they can only wait patiently to see if the Warriors can ultimately rise from the trough and welcome a new dawn.