Stephen Curry bounced back from an abysmal performance to lead the Golden State Warriors past the Minnesota Timberwolves, 113-103, on Saturday.
Curry finished with game-highs of 31 points, built on seven three-pointers, and 13 assists to make up for his forgettable two-point performance in their loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Thursday.
The Warriors improved to 15-12 but have only won thrice in their last 10 outings.
After the game, Warriors coach Steve Kerr stressed that the 36-year-old Curry remains the centerpiece of their offense, while sending a pointed message to their young players, although he didn’t mention names.
“That’s what we’re trying to impart on our young players,” said Kerr in a report from NBC Sports Bay Area’s Ali Thanawalla.
“We have Steph Curry on our team. So, pass the ball. Move the ball.
“And if Steph gets off it early, because he’s gained an advantage, now the defense is scrambling.”
He added: “This is how we’ve played for 10 years, and it’s important for our young players to understand.”
When told about Kerr’s strong remarks, Warriors guard Brandin Podziemski simply shrugged them off.
“I don’t really think, I just play,” said the 21-year-old in the same report.
“When I’m out there and I’m open, I shoot it. If not, I make a play. I don’t really look too much into it.
“I know we have Steph Curry on the court and if he’s open, I’m going throw the ball to him. I don’t really look too deep into those messages.”
Podziemski, who’s being mentioned in trade rumors, contributed 12 points, seven rebounds and two steals off the bench against the Timberwolves.
After getting consistent minutes in his rookie year, he’s seen his role fluctuate under the equal-opportunity strategy of Kerr this season.
Podziemski is currently averaging 8.4 points, 4.7 rebounds and 3.4 assists in 24.3 minutes per game—all slight decreases from his maiden campaign.
