NBA regular season continues, with the Warriors welcoming a match against the Grizzlies at home, ultimately winning 121-113 and securing a double victory. At the start of the game, the Warriors made a small climax of 12-2, leading by 10 points, but their scoring continuity was poor, ending the first quarter with only a 1-point lead. In the second quarter, the Warriors extended their lead to over 10 points again, but their offense stalled once more, allowing the Grizzlies to make a 25-18 run, leaving them with a 4-point advantage at halftime. In the second half, the Warriors controlled the situation, with the third quarter's point difference ranging from 5 to 10 points. In the crucial fourth quarter, the Warriors withstood the Grizzlies' opening counterattack and eventually widened the gap to double digits to win the game. After this victory, the Warriors' record stands at 18 wins and 16 losses. So, what was the key to this victory? The data may provide an answer.
Wiggins had a shooting performance of 9 out of 17 attempts, making 3 out of 10 three-pointers and all 3 free throws, totaling 24 points, 2 rebounds, 3 assists, and 4 steals, though he made 2 turnovers. His performance showed a trend of starting low and improving, as he played poorly in the first half, making only 1 out of 6 shots for 2 points, and was even hesitant to shoot. However, after halftime, he seemed like a different person in the third quarter, making 6 out of 7 shots including 3 three-pointers, scoring 18 points alone. With Curry absent, Wiggins took on the offensive burden, and the Warriors hope for his consistent performance every night.
Schroder performed outstandingly in this game, making 6 out of 15 shots, 3 out of 6 three-pointers, and 2 out of 4 free throws, totaling 17 points, 3 rebounds, and 9 assists, with 2 turnovers. He continued his good form, becoming increasingly clear about his positioning and integration into the Warriors' lineup and system. He excelled both offensively and defensively, and in Curry's absence, he ensured the Warriors had a qualified ball-handler, showing that the trade to bring Schroder to the Warriors was significant.
How did Tres Davis perform on the court today? He made 5 out of 13 shots and 1 out of 1 free throw, scoring 11 points, grabbing 9 rebounds, dishing out 5 assists, and completing 3 steals, with only 1 turnover. Overall, TJD's performance today remained quite good. Although his offensive efficiency wasn't high, he was nearly perfect in other aspects. For instance, he guarded the rebounds under the basket and protected the rim during defense with all his might. The reason for his subpar offensive efficiency was truly beyond his control, as the Grizzlies have a strong frontcourt with tall and muscular players, making it difficult for TJD to get enough opportunities. Even when he created some chances, the finishing space was far from ideal.
Hield had a decent shooting performance in this game, making 5 out of 9 attempts, including 4 out of 7 three-pointers, scoring 14 points, 2 rebounds, and 3 assists, though he also made 3 turnovers. Today, his state has improved, but let's be realistic; don't expect too much from him. As long as he doesn't lose his position on defense, it's enough not to count on him to handle the ball well or connect the team on offense, just to hit open three-pointers.
Draymond Green's performance in this game was commendable. In terms of shooting, he made 3 out of 7 attempts, including 3 out of 6 three-pointers, scoring a total of 9 points, with 2 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals, and 1 block, though he also made 2 turnovers. Green really tried his best today, fully engaging in defense against 3J Jackson and seizing some perimeter shooting opportunities on offense with high efficiency. In Curry's absence, Green didn't miss a beat but actively led the team on the defensive end, making him crucial to the Warriors in this game.
Among the bench players, Kuminga's performance stood out. He made 4 out of 6 shots, including 3 out of 3 three-pointers, and 2 out of 4 free throws, ultimately scoring 13 points and grabbing 2 rebounds with 2 assists, though he also made 4 turnovers. Today, Kuminga was in excellent form, able to break through with his talent and strength when the offense was blocked, and with fine judgment, he could hit outside shots when the opportunity arose. Unfortunately, he was injured and had to leave the court. Keep in mind that even with the Warriors' deep roster, if Kuminga can't play now, it will have a significant impact on the Warriors.
Among the bench players, Moody performed satisfactorily, making 2 out of 3 shots, 2 out of 3 three-pointers, and 2 out of 3 free throws, scoring a total of 8 points, which was quite standard. Waters performed outstandingly, making 6 out of 7 shots, including 4 out of 5 three-pointers, scoring 16 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block, with only 1 turnover. Li Keller and Spencer had limited playing time, contributing little but also avoiding mistakes. Overall, the Warriors' bench performed quite well today, considering the tight personnel.