Warriors Secure Victory in Texas to Head into All-Star Break
For how frustrating the Warriors’ loss to the Dallas Mavericks was on Wednesday night, they managed to stave off the Houston Rockets’ comeback in their second game of the Texas trip, securing a 105-98 win at Toyota Center on Thursday. This victory provided the perfect momentum boost heading into the NBA All-Star break. Key contributors like Steph Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Brandin Podziemski played pivotal roles in the win, showcasing the team’s resilience and adaptability.
Steph Curry Leads the Charge
Steph Curry led the Warriors with 27 points, demonstrating his ability to carry the team when needed. He scored 15 points in the first half and 12 in the second, making a game-high five 3-pointers. Despite the team’s low 3-point shooting percentage of 26.8 percent, Curry’s performance was a testament to his consistent threat from beyond the arc. His ability to break through defensive schemes and find open shots is what sets him apart, and his leadership was crucial in maintaining the Warriors’ composure throughout the game.
Jimmy Butler’s All-Around Performance
Jimmy Butler contributed significantly with 19 points, eight rebounds, and four assists. His versatility on both ends of the floor was evident, as he not only exhibited his scoring prowess but also played a vital role in the team’s defensive efforts. Butler’s ability to get to the rim and draw fouls, leading to a strong performance from the free-throw line, was a key factor in the Warriors’ win. His overall game management and energy were instrumental in keeping the Warriors ahead, especially in crucial moments.
Podziemski’s Impactful Debut in the Starting Lineup
With their 33rd different starting five this season, Steve Kerr decided to replace Buddy Hield with Brandin Podziemski alongside Curry, Butler, Moses Moody, and Draymond Green. The change was warranted after Hield’s poor performance against the Mavericks, where he was a game-worst minus-21. Podziemski, on the other hand, was a team-high plus-13 in 24 minutes off the bench in the previous game. His immediate impact in the starting lineup was significant, scoring six points in the first quarter and eight in the second, totaling 14 first-half points, just one behind Curry. Podziemski’s comprehensive contribution included five rebounds, four assists, and four steals, with a highlight being a crucial ball theft in the final minute. His aggressive defense and offensive versatility proved to be valuable assets for the Warriors.
Moses Moody’s Consistent Hustle
While Podziemski’s inclusion in the starting lineup was the bigger story, Moses Moody ensured he made his presence felt as well. The fourth-year pro has been a consistent force for the Warriors this season, and Thursday’s game was no different. Moody’s first half was a standout, featuring a mix of offensive and defensive plays. He attacked closeouts, forcefully got to the basket, and scored 10 points, including a tip-in and a successful 3-point attempt. Defensively, Moody took a charge, blocked two shots, and recorded a steal. Although he didn’t score in the second half, his hustle and defensive contributions continued, with six rebounds, two steals, and two blocked shots. Moody’s performance solidified his role as a vital player, scoring in double figures in 13 of his last 15 games.
Clutch Performance in the Final Four Minutes
The Warriors found themselves in a clutch game against the Rockets for the fourth time this season, marking their 34th clutch game overall in the 2024-25 NBA season. This ties them with the Rockets and the Minnesota Timberwolves for the league lead, highlighting the team’s tendency to perform under pressure. The real clutch time came in the final four minutes when Kerr reinserted his starting lineup. At the 3:56 mark, with the Warriors holding a four-point lead, Draymond Green replaced Kevon Looney. Just 14 seconds later, Green found Curry for a critical 3-pointer, which felt like a 10-point play. The Warriors’ next three possessions featured a Green floater, a Butler dunk off a pass from Green, and Butler scoring two points from the free-throw line, extending the lead to 11 points. Despite the Rockets’ relentless fighting, Green’s dagger 3-pointer with 47 seconds remaining sealed the deal. The starting five outscored the Rockets by three points in the final four minutes, ensuring a crucial victory before the All-Star break.
Looking Ahead to the All-Star Break
The Warriors’ win against the Rockets puts them one game above .500 at 28-27, a respectable position given the challenges they’ve faced this season. The All-Star break comes at a perfect time, allowing the team to rest, regroup, and reflect on their performance. The break will be essential for key players like Curry, Butler, and Green to recharge and prepare for the second half of the season. With a mix of young talent and seasoned veterans, the Warriors have shown the ability to adapt and overcome adversity. This victory, combined with the productive performances from Podziemski and Moody, sets a positive tone for the team as they head into the break with renewed confidence and momentum.
