The Golden State Warriors suffered back-to-back losses during their trip to the East.
The loss to Milwaukee was followed by a 114-109 loss to the Indiana Pacers in a game that exposed serious offensive limitations.
After the loss, Steve Kerr cited the Warriors’ spacing issues, which were statistically reflected in their 3-point shooting percentage of 27.3 percent.
This mark represented his worst performance on the perimeter through the first seven games of the season.
Kerr also commented on the Warriors’ young players, especially Gui Santos’ impact when he was in the game.
The coach specifically mentioned Santos’ three-point shooting among his positive contributions.
“Offensive boards, cutting, knocking down threes. This is why Gi is so important to us on nights like tonight where there’s no energy and everyone seems tired. He comes out and changes the game, and that’s exactly what he did tonight,” Kerr explained.
“Moses (Moody) did that tonight as well. He did a really good job with that group and also BP (Brandin Podzemski). They really turned the game around. It’s a shame we couldn’t close it out for them.”
Santos only attempted and made one 3-point shot in this game. He essentially became the Warriors’ most capable perimeter shooter that night, highlighting the Warriors’ widespread shooting struggles.
Kerr’s comments suggest the Warriors should reconsider pursuing the sharpshooters they targeted in the Jonathan Kuminga deal saga, specifically Trey Murphy III.
Golden State reportedly contacted New Orleans about the 25-year-old guard before ultimately retaining Kuminga.
Murphy averaged 21.2 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.5 assists last season while shooting 36.1 percent from 3-point range.
His career 3-point percentage is 38.1 percent, but he struggled early this season at 30.3 percent, averaging 13.6 points through five games, largely reflecting New Orleans’ overall struggles.
With rotation players like Buddy Hield, Gary Payton II, Al Horford and Quinten Post all shooting below 32% from deep, the Warriors need an additional perimeter threat to provide a backup if Stephen Curry has an off night.
Seth Curry could address some shooting needs if he becomes eligible in November, but his defensive limitations pose concerns in the Warriors’ system.