The frustration was visible long before the final buzzer sounded in the Golden State Warriors’ 113-109 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans. Short-handed and searching for answers, the Warriors found themselves battling not just their opponent, but also internal tension that briefly boiled over during the third quarter.
With Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler sidelined by knee injuries, Golden State leaned heavily on its younger players to shoulder the offensive load.
The responsibility created opportunity, but also pressure. That became apparent with 2:39 remaining in the third quarter when head coach Steve Kerr called for a timeout as the Warriors trailed by just one point.
Instead of immediately gathering around the clipboard, Brandin Podziemski and Quinten Post were locked in a heated exchange. The disagreement stemmed from a missed opportunity on the previous possession.
Post had established deep position in the paint against a smaller defender, Bryce McGowens, presenting what looked like a clear mismatch, however, the pass never came.
Podziemski kept the ball rather than feeding his teammate inside. What could have been a simple entry pass for an easy layup turned into a wasted possession. Post, visibly frustrated, voiced his displeasure before Kerr could even begin diagramming the next play.
Green steps in as emotions flare
That’s when Draymond Green intervened.
The veteran forward, well aware of how quickly sideline arguments can spiral, physically stepped between the two young players. Green placed his hands on both teammates to calm the situation and ensure it didn’t escalate further.
After briefly separating them, he focused his attention on Podziemski, pointing toward the court as if walking him through the read he could have made.
Green‘s actions highlighted his role as a leader. Once known primarily for his fiery confrontations, he is now a stabilizing presence for a roster navigating injuries and growing pains. His quick response prevented the moment from becoming a larger distraction in a tightly contested game.
Despite flashes of resilience, the Warriors were unable to complete the comeback. Zion Williamson led the Pelicans with 26 points, helping New Orleans withstand Golden State’s late push. The Warriors had already dug themselves into an early hole, falling behind 31-19 after the first quarter – a deficit that proved costly.
Playing without Curry, Butler, Al Horford (toe), and Kristaps Porzingis (illness), Golden State struggled to maintain consistent offensive rhythm. While the young core showed promise, lapses in decision-making and execution ultimately made the difference.
Maintaining composure and sharpening communication may be just as vital as any tactical adjustment for the Warriors.
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