Steph Curry Leaves Injured, Andrew Wiggins Steps Up Big Time In Loss To Clippers

The Golden State Warriors faced a challenging night against the LA Clippers, falling 112-104 in their home opener. Despite the loss, there were several noteworthy performances and key takeaways from the game.

NBA: Los Angeles Clippers at Golden State Warriors

Oct 27, 2024; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins (22) drives to the basket between Los Angeles Clippers guards James Harden (1) and Norman Powell (24) during the first quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images

D. Ross Cameron/D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images

Hey Warriors fans,

It’s Charlie Walter here, and I’m thrilled to bring you the latest episode of Locked on Warriors. We’ve got a lot to unpack from last night’s game against the LA Clippers. While the final score wasn’t in our favor, with the Clippers taking it 112-104, there were some standout performances and key moments worth discussing.

Andrew Wiggins Shines Bright

Andrew Wiggins was a standout performer, leading the Warriors with 29 points. His aggressive play and ability to step up in the absence of Steph Curry, who left the game with a rolled ankle, were crucial. Wiggins’ performance was reminiscent of his form during the 2022 championship run, showcasing his potential as a secondary scorer for the team.

Turnovers and Shot Selection: Areas for Improvement

The Warriors struggled with turnovers, a recurring issue that hampered their ability to maintain momentum. Poor shot selection, particularly in critical moments, also contributed to their downfall. The team needs to address these areas to improve their performance in future games.

Steph Curry’s Injury: A Mild Setback

Steph Curry’s exit due to an ankle sprain was a significant blow. However, initial reports suggest the injury is mild to moderate, and not a long-term concern. The Warriors will be cautious with Curry’s recovery, given his importance to the team’s success.

Defensive Challenges and Rebounding Woes

Defensively, the Warriors had mixed results. While they managed to contain James Harden effectively, they struggled against the Clippers’ size, particularly in the paint. Ivica Zubac’s dominant performance highlighted the Warriors’ need for a stronger interior presence.

The Role of Young Players

Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody are expected to step up, especially in Curry’s absence. Kuminga showed flashes of brilliance but needs to develop consistency, particularly with his three-point shooting. Moody, on the other hand, needs more opportunities to find his rhythm and contribute offensively.

Looking Ahead

Despite the loss, the Warriors showed resilience, battling back from an 11-point deficit to make it a three-point game late in the fourth quarter. This fight and determination are positive signs for the season ahead. As the team continues to gel and address their weaknesses, there’s optimism for improvement.

The Warriors will look to bounce back in their upcoming games against the New Orleans Pelicans. With 79 games left in the season, there’s ample time for adjustments and growth. Fans are encouraged to remain patient and optimistic as the team navigates the early challenges of the season.

Catch the full episode now and stay connected with your daily dose of Warriors insights.

Best,

Charlie “Chuck” Walter