Warriors’ Close Loss to Rockets Highlights Final Play Issues

SAN FRANCISCO — Fans were closely watching Brandin Podzemski as they analyzed the last play during the Warriors’ narrow defeat to the Rockets, a game notable for Stephen Curry’s return.

The third-year guard appeared to miss the cue for Draymond Green to move to the top of the key and act as a second screener for Curry. With the game clock running out in a tense 117-116 loss, Curry looked visibly distressed as he heard the sound of the rim rattling.

After the following day’s practice, Podzemski offered some insight into his decision to keep De’Anthony Melton in his spot on the left side of the court. “During those critical moments, you really want to give your top players the room they need to create. You don’t want to crowd them unnecessarily,” he remarked.

Curry managed to score eight points in the last five minutes, turning a double-digit deficit into a slim one-point lead with just 11 seconds remaining. He maneuvered to the center of the court, aiming to connect with Green, who was attempting to shake off Armen Thompson.

However, instead of getting a clean look, Thompson and Green’s defender, Jabari Smith Jr., tightly contested Curry’s shot, which unfortunately missed, leaving the game in disappointment.

Even as Green appeared to curl around to set a screen, Podzemski stayed put on the left side. The Warriors intended to focus on Alperen Sengun, although Podzemski worried about adding another defender into the mix.

“It was a bit unclear. Steph came towards the middle, and Melton and Draymond were over to the left. I was aware we wanted to involve Sengun, but when I saw Draymond go up for the screen, I hesitated to pull in another player,” Podzemski explained.

Curry had hoped to leverage Sengun in pick-and-roll plays but mentioned that the play felt stagnant at the top of the key. “It felt like there was a wall as I approached the three-point line. I wasn’t sure how to navigate,” he noted.

The shot ultimately fell short, and Curry’s return to action ended on a sour note. After briefly taking a 115-114 lead with 20 seconds left, the Warriors struggled defensively, allowing Sengun to convert a critical shot in the paint.

Head Coach Steve Kerr reflected, “We could have improved in the last two possessions—both offensively and defensively. Still, it was impressive to see our team fight back and create opportunities.”

Although this game didn’t heavily impact standings, some potential game-changing calls were noted. The NBA’s two-minute report indicated that Curry should have been awarded free throws after a layup with 1:27 remaining. Furthermore, Sengun’s three-point play should have been negated due to a three-second violation, as per that report.

Nevertheless, Curry still had the chance to clinch the game. “Some might say it was a tough shot,” Podzemski acknowledged, “but I really don’t think it’s difficult for Steph.”