The Golden State Warriors snagged a 111-106 preseason win over the Kings on Saturday night, but let’s be real, the final score barely scratches the surface. The real buzz was all about Stephen Curry, or rather, his notable *absence* for most of the game, playing a mere 14 minutes. This wasn’t some benching or an off-night. This was by design, a deliberate move that signals a massive shift for the Warriors as they prepare for a future where their superstar’s minutes are carefully managed.
The Preservation Plan Is Kicking In
Curry, at 38 years old, has put a ton of wear on those joints, and stomping his new Li-Nings into the hardwood repeatedly isn’t doing his ability to still be Stephen Curry at 40-plus any long-term good. After a knee condition sidelined him for two months last season, the plan for his body has become “less is more.” He did fewer on-court reps this summer, totally by design. Coach Steve Kerr pulled Curry after just 14 first-half minutes against Sacramento, and he didn’t see the floor for the rest of the night after two quick first-quarter threes. This slow ramp-up is all about preserving those joints for any kind of deep run later in the season.
Kerr made it clear before the game what the team is focused on. “We’re looking at everybody,” he said. “We’re looking at all the young players, and who might be able to fill in … we have to look at different rotations without Steph, different combinations to see what’s the most effective way we can win when he’s not there.” The Warriors are already preparing for the reality that they’ll need to sit Curry at times to keep him fresh for April.
Who’s Stepping Up When the Engine Sits?
On a sleepy Saturday at Chase Center, with the Bay Area’s attention still on a Golden State Valkyries sweep in Las Vegas, the Warriors found some serious non-Curry magic. Despite Curry checking out with over four minutes left in the first quarter, and not returning until six minutes remained in the second, the team still pulled off the win.
So, who answered the call when the engine was off? Gui Santos came alive, dropping 15 points and grabbing six rebounds. Lendeborg was an absolute beast, leading the team with 23 points and a whopping 10 rebounds. Podziemski chipped in with 14 points, and Niang added a crucial 13 points. These guys showed out, proving that the coaching staff’s focus on “different rotations without Steph” isn’t just talk.
This preseason win, even if the general sports world was looking elsewhere, was a huge moment. It wasn’t just about a W, it was a blueprint. Coach Kerr and his crew are getting serious about winning without Curry on the floor for extended stretches. What we saw Saturday night was a glimpse into that future. The question now is, can these guys consistently deliver when their legend is taking a well-deserved break?
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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