Warriors still lack ‘time for money’

Despite 39 points from Stephen CurryTHE Warriors they were unable to bend Raptors. In question: once again a poorly controlled end of the match from Steve Kerr’s people.

However, the “boss” tried everything. His long-range shot with less than two minutes left even gave Golden State a seven-point lead. But from behind, the Californians completely broke down: two turnovers in the next two offensive possessions, and Toronto did not miss the opportunity. The Raptors went on a 7-0 run to rally and tie the game for the first time a minute into the period.

“They had all the turnovers, offensive rebounds and extra possessions,” regret Stephen Curry after the meeting. “We win as a team, we lose as a team. The priority is to secure possession and find a shot close to the circle. We have to find a way to do that because losing twenty balls is not acceptable.”

Golden State actually lost 20 turnovers against the Raptors, including 8 between the fourth quarter and overtime! A number that once again illustrates the difficulty of the Warriors in managing decisive moments.

Golden State has played 17 games in clutch time this season, when the maximum margin is five points in the final five minutes. Results: 6 wins for 11 losses or only 35.3% success. The play that sets up the Warriors among the six worst teams leagues in these areas…

The rejection problem

“Turnovers at the end of the third and fourth quarter destabilized us.” admits Steve Kerr. “I have to organize myself better during these passes, it’s my fault. They increased the pressure and we couldn’t stand it. They scored 35 points on our turnovers, this is where the match was played.”

Aside from the turnovers, the rebounding battle was also tough. Scottie Barnes prepared himself (25 shots) and, combined, Toronto dominated: 55 rebounds to 42. The advantage that became decisive in “money time”: in the final 90 seconds of regulation time, the Raptors grabbed two offensive rebounds, each time turned into points, including this shot by Scotty Barnes that sent the two teams to overtime.

And in overtime, the scenario was repeated: Toronto multiplied the second chances, gradually increased the deficit, then won 141-127.

“We were able to put ourselves in a position to win this game, but we couldn’t get rebounds and there were too many turnovers.” understands Stephen Curry, who still seemed to be on his knees at the end of the match. “This increased the pressure and we weren’t able to respond at the end of the match.”