The Golden State Warriors faced a heartbreaking defeat at the hands of the Denver Nuggets, losing 119-115 despite coming agonizingly close to securing a crucial victory. The defeat marks the Warriors’ fifth consecutive loss this season and their eighth straight loss against the Nuggets, pushing them down to the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference NBA Cup standings.
The Warriors, led by Stephen Curry’s impressive 24 points, had six players scoring in double figures. However, their efforts were not enough to overcome the late surge from the Nuggets, who erased an 11-point deficit in the final 6:01 of the game. With the loss, the Warriors are now set to face the Houston Rockets in the NBA Cup quarterfinals on Wednesday, Dec. 11.
Another failure down the stretch
The absence of Draymond Green, who was sidelined with a tender left calf, and Curry’s 8-of-23 shooting performance highlighted the Warriors’ struggles. The team’s bench, which had lost some momentum in recent games, stepped up in the third and fourth quarters to keep the Warriors in contention. However, a series of missed shots, turnovers, and defensive lapses allowed the Nuggets to seize control of the game in the final minutes.
Kuminga shines in the starting lineup
Jonathan Kuminga’s performance in the starting lineup was a bright spot for the Warriors. Making only his second start in three games, Kuminga showcased his versatility and offensive prowess, scoring 19 points on 9-of-18 shooting. His improved decision-making and floor vision were particularly impressive, providing a glimpse of the young player’s potential.
Moody’s mood
Moses Moody’s resilience and determination were on full display as he bounced back from a limited role in the previous game to make a significant impact against the Nuggets. Despite a slow start, Moody’s offensive contributions in the second half played a crucial role in keeping the Warriors within striking distance. His 13 points in 13 minutes showcased his scoring ability and versatility on the court.
In the face of adversity, the Warriors’ young talents stepped up to deliver promising performances, offering hope for better results in the upcoming games. As they regroup and prepare to face the Rockets, the Warriors will look to learn from their mistakes and build on the positives from their latest matchup.
