The Golden State Warriors have struggled mightily away from the Chase Center this NBA season, and Tuesday night was no different. Golden State was steamrolled by the LA Clippers at CRYPTO.com Arena, losing 134-124.
That loss dropped their record to 7-22 on the road, something that has to get cleaned up if they want any hopes of defending their championship this season.
The Clippers got whatever they wanted offensively against the Warriors as they had no answers on defense. Kawhi Leonard led the way with 33 points while Norman Powell poured in 24 off the bench. Paul George scored 20 of his own while Terance Mann and Ivica Zubac also scored in double-figures.
After years of playing suffocating defense, Golden State has lacked on that end of the court this season. They are currently 21st in defensive rating, which isn’t going to cut it. Playing without Andrew Wiggins against the Clippers certainly didn’t help matters, but it takes a total team effort to get the job done.
NBA NEWS: Draymond Green & Golden State Warriors Updates
That effort level on defense has been lacking and it is something that Draymond Green is tired of. After Tuesday night’s game, he didn’t hold back when discussing the team’s performance on that end of the court.
“Defense is all about a will — a want to defend. Defense isn’t fun. You just got to want to do it if you want to win and we haven’t,” Green said. “I’m always going to try on that side, but I can be better. I’m not going to point the finger at anyone or point blame. If you’re a leader at something and you’re failing, it’s your fault.”
The Warriors are attempting to navigate things without Stephen Curry, which is a challenge in itself. However, bringing energy and effort every night is asking for the bare minimum. Out-hustling your opponent, especially when not at full strength, is imperative and could lead to a few victories being snatched from the jaws of defeat.
NBA NEWS: Draymond Green & Golden State Warriors Updates
Golden State doesn’t have much time to figure things out on that end of the court as the regular season is moving along quickly. They are currently 29-29 on the season and in ninth place in the Western Conference. However, one skid and they could find themselves on the outside look in as they are only three games ahead of the 13th-place Los Angeles Lakers.
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