A loss to the Phoenix Suns on opening night wasn’t how the Golden State Warriors envisioned their season starting. After a strong preseason showing, Steve Kerr went with a small-ball lineup that featured Chris Paul, Klay Thompson and Steph Curry. However, the lack of size led to some big-time offensive rebounds for the Suns.
Golden State won the offensive rebounding battle, 18-17. However, Phoenix’s 27 second-chance points created the gap that allowed the Suns to secure the game. When speaking to the media, Kerr pinpointed the offensive rebounds as a “killer” for his team’s ability to create separation throughout the contest.
“Took care of the ball tonight. We stopped fouling in the second half which helped us regain the momentum there in the third quarter. But their offensive rebounds were killers. I thought (Josh) Okogie was the difference tonight. Just his offensive boards, his hustle plays, he was key for them.”
Without Draymond Green in the rotation, the Warriors were missing their defensive floor general. Nevertheless, Golden State clawed and fought throughout the contest, keeping the game close despite their poor shooting night.
Steve Kerr was happy with the Warriors' fight but calls the Suns' offensive rebounds "killers" tonight pic.twitter.com/MMQTFYYjUr
— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) October 25, 2023
Kerr and the Warriors turn their attention to the Sacramento Kings, who they will face on Friday, Oct. 27. Regardless of whether Green is cleared to play or not, the focus will likely be limiting opponents’ offensive rebounding.
With such limited size in their roster, Golden State will need to figure out how to rebound by committee and block big men and explosive wings out of the paint.
