The Golden State Warriors showcased the strength of their roster depth Tuesday night, overcoming the absence of key players Steph Curry, Andrew Wiggins, and De’Anthony Melton to defeat the New Orleans Pelicans 124-106. Coach Steve Kerr utilized a deep rotation, and after a rocky start, the Warriors found their rhythm, outscoring New Orleans by 35 points over the final three quarters.
Rising Stars Step Up: Podziemski, Hield, and Waters Impress
Second-year guard Brandin Podziemski seamlessly filled Curry’s role, contributing 19 points, five assists, and a +17 efficiency rating. Meanwhile, Buddy Hield caught fire in the second half, hitting six straight three-pointers for a game-high 28 points. Lindy Waters delivered a standout performance off the bench, scoring 21 points and grabbing a career-high nine rebounds, helping the Warriors gain momentum and electrifying the Chase Center crowd.
Sharper Play and Aggressive Defense
Golden State’s improved ball control and relentless defense were critical to their success. The Warriors amassed 34 assists and limited turnovers to just eight, while their defense secured 14 steals and forced 32 Pelicans turnovers, resulting in 32 points. The team’s defensive pressure helped them recover from a sluggish start and dominate the game.
Takeaways from the Warriors’ Bounce-Back Win
A Bold Lineup Shift
Without Curry and Wiggins, Coach Kerr experimented with a fresh starting lineup, adding Hield and Moses Moody to join Draymond Green, Trayce Jackson-Davis, and Podziemski. The initial results were shaky, as the Warriors trailed 31-14 after the first quarter with little offense generated. However, Kerr quickly adjusted, rotating different combinations until the team found its stride. With Curry and Melton expected to miss Wednesday’s game, Kerr’s lineup decisions will be interesting to watch as he seeks to maintain the team’s momentum.
Kuminga’s Impact off the Bench
Jonathan Kuminga, initially left out of the starting lineup, came off the bench and provided a needed spark. Despite a slow start, Kuminga’s energy increased as the game progressed, contributing two steals in the first half and ending with 17 points on 6-of-13 shooting. He was instrumental in Golden State’s defensive and offensive rhythm, with timely rebounds and scoring drives that energized the team. Kuminga’s focused approach highlighted his potential as a versatile contributor on both ends of the floor.
Lindy Waters Finds His Groove
Lindy Waters made the most of his minutes, showing his value as a sharpshooter and all-around player. Initially missing his lone shot in the first quarter, Waters came alive in the second, scoring nine points and pulling down five rebounds, including three on the offensive end. His strong performance earned him a starting spot in the second half, where he quickly hit a three-pointer to kickstart the Warriors’ offense. Waters finished with a game-high +26 efficiency rating, proving he’s more than just a perimeter specialist and establishing himself as a valuable asset for the Warriors.
Looking Ahead
With Curry and Melton unavailable for the next game, the Warriors’ depth will continue to be tested as they look to build on this victory. Coach Kerr’s willingness to explore lineup combinations, paired with promising performances from emerging players like Podziemski and Waters, hints at a dynamic season ahead for Golden State’s deep roster.