Stephen Curry Gets 4th Quarter Off, As Warriors Handle Memphis Grizzlies With Dominant Defense

Stephen Curry Gets 4th Quarter Off, As Warriors Handle Memphis Grizzlies With Dominant Defense

In the fast-paced world of the NBA, where star players often have to shoulder a heavy load throughout the course of a game, it’s rare to see a team have such control that their superstar can rest during crunch time. However, in a decisive performance against the Memphis Grizzlies, the Golden State Warriors showcased their depth, defensive prowess, and team chemistry, allowing Stephen Curry to get the fourth quarter off. The Warriors’ dominance on both ends of the floor, coupled with a strategic approach, led to a resounding victory that not only emphasized the team’s strength but also gave them a much-needed confidence boost in the middle of the regular season.

Warriors’ Defensive Dominance Sets the Tone

From the opening tip-off, the Golden State Warriors’ defense was a statement. While the team has often been synonymous with offensive firepower, including Curry’s shooting exploits and the contributions of other key players like Klay Thompson and Draymond Green, their defensive performance against the Grizzlies was nothing short of spectacular.

Golden State, known for their ability to spread the floor and launch an array of three-pointers, switched gears on defense, using their agility, intelligence, and experience to stifle Memphis at almost every turn. Their ability to contest shots without fouling, move their feet on the perimeter, and collapse the paint when needed was key to limiting Memphis’ offensive efficiency.

One of the biggest challenges for the Grizzlies this season has been their inconsistent offense, especially without Ja Morant, who was serving a suspension. Despite the absence of Morant, Memphis was still considered a dangerous team with the likes of Jaren Jackson Jr. and Desmond Bane providing scoring threats. However, the Warriors’ defense, particularly in transition and half-court situations, prevented Memphis from ever finding a rhythm.

Key Defensive Performances

Several players on the Warriors played pivotal roles in this defensive showcase. Draymond Green, who has long been the heart of Golden State’s defense, demonstrated his elite defensive IQ and versatility once again. Green’s ability to guard multiple positions, whether it was contesting shots from the perimeter or protecting the rim in the paint, allowed the Warriors to switch on screens and keep the Grizzlies from exploiting mismatches.

The defensive communication and positioning between Green and his teammates were remarkable. They seemed to anticipate each play, closing passing lanes, and forcing turnovers. Green’s ability to read the game and disrupt Memphis’ flow was a catalyst in turning the tide in Golden State’s favor.

Additionally, the Warriors’ perimeter defense was stifling. Klay Thompson, despite occasional shooting struggles, continues to excel on the defensive end, particularly in guarding wing players. His size and length allowed him to contest shots, while his agility enabled him to keep up with Grizzlies’ guards like Bane. The team’s help defense also proved critical, as they collapsed quickly on drives, preventing Memphis from finishing at the rim with any regularity.

Golden State’s ability to not only defend but to do so without fouling was key to their success. The Warriors limited the Grizzlies to just 42% shooting from the field, and Memphis’ struggles to score in the half-court played directly into Golden State’s hands.

The Warriors’ Offensive Efficiency

Although the Warriors’ defense set the tone for the game, their offensive execution was equally impressive. While Curry was the star of the show in the first three quarters, his absence in the final frame showed just how deep the team is. The Warriors were able to maintain their lead without relying on their MVP, showing that they have a solid group of players who can step up when needed.

Curry, as always, was the focal point of Golden State’s offense. He was a constant threat both off the dribble and as a catch-and-shoot option, creating opportunities for his teammates while scoring efficiently himself. His shooting range continues to stretch defenses, pulling defenders far beyond the arc, which opens up driving lanes for teammates and space in the paint.

In the first half, Curry was particularly effective, finishing with 20 points by halftime. He showcased his usual ball-handling wizardry, hitting pull-up threes, creating assists, and collapsing the Memphis defense. As always, his presence on the floor commanded attention, which allowed other Warriors like Thompson, Andrew Wiggins, and Kevon Looney to get involved in the scoring.

Wiggins, who has been quietly consistent throughout the season, had a strong showing, contributing both defensively and offensively. His ability to score in a variety of ways—whether it be cutting to the basket, hitting mid-range shots, or spotting up from beyond the arc—gave the Warriors an added dimension that Memphis struggled to contain. Thompson, too, had his moments, knocking down key threes and playing solid defense, which allowed the Warriors to continue their offensive flow without interruption.

The bench also contributed, with key performances from players like Moses Moody and Jonathan Kuminga. Both provided solid minutes, hitting timely shots and playing sound defense. Kuminga’s energy and athleticism were particularly evident as he made plays in transition, showcasing his growth as a reliable contributor to the team.

A Team-Oriented Approach: No Need for Curry in the Fourth

By the time the fourth quarter arrived, the Warriors had established a commanding lead. Curry, who had been instrumental in building the team’s cushion, was able to sit on the bench and rest for the final period, a luxury that few teams can afford. The fact that the Warriors didn’t need their superstar in crunch time speaks volumes about their overall team play and the depth of their roster.

Golden State’s ability to maintain and even extend their lead in Curry’s absence was a testament to their balanced approach. The Grizzlies, though competitive throughout the game, could never quite close the gap. The Warriors’ defensive consistency, combined with efficient scoring from multiple sources, ensured that the game never truly got close in the final minutes.

During the fourth quarter, head coach Steve Kerr was able to deploy his reserves, giving them valuable playing time and experience in a high-pressure game situation. The bench players didn’t just fill minutes but actively contributed to the team’s success. This ability to rest key players like Curry while still maintaining a high level of play will be invaluable for the Warriors as the season progresses, especially given the long grind of an 82-game season.

Memphis’ Struggles: Injuries and Inconsistent Play

The Grizzlies, while showing some flashes of brilliance, were never able to overcome the Warriors’ defensive pressure. Injuries and roster adjustments have plagued Memphis this season, and they have yet to find the consistency they had in the previous year. With Morant out of the lineup, the Grizzlies are forced to rely heavily on Bane and Jackson, but their lack of playmaking and offensive fluidity without Morant is evident.

Bane, a talented scorer, did his best to keep Memphis in the game, but he faced constant defensive pressure from the Warriors. Jackson, one of the NBA’s premier defenders and shot-blockers, found little success in trying to generate offense for the Grizzlies. His perimeter shooting was inefficient, and his struggles to finish at the rim against Golden State’s defense exacerbated the team’s offensive woes.

In addition to their offensive struggles, Memphis’ defense was unable to slow down Golden State’s high-powered attack. The Grizzlies were frequently caught scrambling on defense, trying to contain the Warriors’ dynamic offensive sets. Despite having one of the league’s most promising young rosters, Memphis couldn’t match the experience, discipline, and execution of the Warriors on this night.

Looking Ahead: A Boost for the Warriors’ Confidence

For the Golden State Warriors, this win against the Memphis Grizzlies is a statement of their potential. The ability to dominate defensively while maintaining offensive efficiency shows that this team, while still reliant on Curry, is evolving into a more well-rounded unit. As the season progresses, the Warriors will need to continue to find ways to balance their offensive firepower with defensive consistency, but performances like this one bode well for their championship aspirations.

Curry’s ability to sit out the final quarter, an unusual luxury for any NBA superstar, is indicative of how far the Warriors have come in terms of team development. With Green anchoring the defense, Curry leading the offense, and role players like Wiggins, Thompson, and the bench stepping up, Golden State appears to be rounding into form at the right time.

As for the Memphis Grizzlies, the road to recovery continues. While they have the talent to be a contender in the West, they will need to find ways to create more offensive consistency and adjust to playing without their star guard, Ja Morant. Their performance against the Warriors was a learning experience, one that highlighted both their potential and the areas where they need to improve.

In conclusion, the Golden State Warriors’ comprehensive win over the Memphis Grizzlies demonstrated their championship pedigree and depth. With their defense setting the tone and their offense running smoothly, they proved that they are more than just a one-man show. Curry’s fourth-quarter rest was a testament to the team’s collective strength—a strength that could make them formidable as the season progresses.