This has not been the season anyone expected in the Bay Area, but despite his club being two games under.500 and in 11th place heading into the trade deadline, Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr stated they had a “special” squad and do not need to make a move.
Kerr addressed trade speculations during his pre-game media session prior to the Warriors’ 127-104 victory over the short-handed Philadelphia 76ers.
If we don’t do anything tomorrow, I believe we have a strong squad that we can work with,” Kerr said.
“The guys here are very accomplished. We have several great young players and a strong bunch. This year, each member of our team has faced significant challenges on his own. After being removed from the starting lineup due to injury, young players have risen through hard work and patience, and I enjoy coaching this club. It’s a long road ahead, but I believe this team has the potential to be something spectacular.
Injuries, Draymond Green’s long-term ban, and subpar play from Klay Thompson and Andrew Wiggins all contributed to the Warriors’ poor first half of the season. The heart of their dynasty, however, remains intact, while Kerr and company cling to that lifeline.
“You see Steph Curry, you see Draymond (Green), go home and check our playoff record of our trio,” Thompson, who finished with 18 points in Wednesday’s triumph, added. “We’re champions. I believe (in ourselves). I will always believe that we can make a run, especially when we are fully prepared.”
This group is less than two years removed from their last title, and given everything they’ve accomplished together, it’s no wonder that they’re still going strong. Even if they have internal reservations, what else will they say publicly? Kerr, in particular, must offer his players support if no deals go place.
However, the front office clearly thinks differently. If the torrent of rumors doesn’t make it plain, their own words from earlier in the season will. This is general manager Mike Dunleavy in December, after Green smacked Jusuf Nurkic in the face.
“We need a little more evaluation of this team: the chemistry, the lineups and all that,” Dunleavy said in a statement. “I believe we’re on the right track, but our record will eventually need to change. We’ll have to get past.500 and start winning some games. “And if not, we’ll have to reconsider.”
The Warriors are under.500, so adjustments are certain by the deadline, whether Kerr and the players want them or not.
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