The Golden State Warriors have stumbled into historic territory, falling 131-122 to the Phoenix Suns on Saturday to drop to 0-3. This marks the first time in Stephen Curry’s entire NBA career that the franchise has started a season with three consecutive losses, a stark contrast to their previous worst start of 1-5 in 2019-20. The defeat extends a trend of early-season struggles, with the team’s last 0-3 opening dating back to the 2007-08 campaign, highlighting a significant shift in momentum for the NBA’s oldest roster.
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The absence of the team’s veteran core was the defining factor in Saturday’s defeat, as Curry, Draymond Green, and Brandin Podziemski all sat out the second leg of a back-to-back schedule. Consequently, head coach Steve Kerr fielded a makeshift starting lineup of Yaxel Lendeborg, Brandon Williams, Graham Ike, Will Richard, and Gui Santos. This rotation, lacking experienced playmakers and defensive anchors, was overwhelmed by Phoenix’s pace and execution, resulting in a blowout that underscored the depth issues plaguing the current roster.
Expectations for this season were tempered by significant injuries, with Jimmy Butler sidelined until midseason due to a torn ACL and Kristaps Porzingis managing POTS symptoms. While the Warriors possess star power, the current lineup lacks the necessary balance to compete with elite teams like the Suns. The 0-3 start forces a critical evaluation of the team’s depth and resilience, raising questions about whether the veteran core can carry the load once the injured stars return or if the youth movement requires a longer development timeline.
Source: Yahoo Sports
