The Golden State Warriors, a team many assumed would falter this season, continue to push through adversity in the highly competitive Western Conference. With key injuries, including Jimmy Butler’s torn ACL ruling him out for the year, the Warriors have adjusted their lineup and strategy to stay competitive. Despite challenges, they hold a 29-25 record and maintain the No. 8 seed, determined to make their mark as the playoffs approach.
Adjusting Roles Amid Critical Moments
Recently, fans and analysts noticed that Draymond Green has not been present during crucial final minutes in games, including a narrow 114-113 victory over Memphis and a tight four-point win against the Suns. Speculation about discord between Steve Kerr and Green circulated, but Kerr clarified the tactical reasoning behind these decisions during a discussion on the Willard and Dubs show. Kerr pointed out the team’s current need to rely on playing a single big man in tight situations, favoring Al Horford’s recent strong performances.
“Without Steph and Jimmy, we’re struggling to score at times, and we’re just finding that we’re better off playing one big. And if Al is playing like he did last night, then we’re going to stay with Al and stay smaller around him,”
explained Kerr.
Strategic Decisions Reflect Team Needs
While Memphis is not considered an elite force in the West, they remain a formidable opponent capable of winning games, underscoring the importance of the Warriors’ cautious approach. Kerr acknowledged that the current lineup configuration, which sidelines Green during clutch moments, seems effective for now but remains subject to change based on ongoing evaluations.
“So it’s just the way it is right now. Everything could be completely different next week, so you just have to kind of roll with it,”
Kerr commented.
Embracing Flexibility to Maintain Competitive Edge
The “roll with it” attitude embodies the Warriors’ longstanding culture of adaptability and confidence under pressure. This season’s roster, enhanced by the addition of Kristaps Porzingis after trading Jonathan Kuminga, provides new tactical options. Meanwhile, Steph Curry continues to disrupt opposing defenses with his exceptional skills, reinforcing Golden State’s threat even in a less dominant form.
A Team That Refuses to Be Counted Out
Although they are no longer the unstoppable powerhouse of previous championship years, the Warriors remain a difficult matchup in play-in games or early playoff rounds. Their resilience and willingness to embrace unconventional strategies make them a team opponents hope to avoid. With Steve Kerr’s readiness to make bold adjustments and players stepping into varied roles, the Warriors could still mount an unexpected postseason run before this chapter concludes.
“Without Steph and Jimmy, we’re struggling to score at times and we’re just finding that we’re better off playing one big. And if Al is playing like he did last night then we’re going to stay with Al and stay smaller around him… So it’s just the way it is right now. Everything… pic.twitter.com/fdqbaRtv6X
— 95.7 The Game (@957thegame) February 11, 2026
