Steve Kerr Explains Why Warriors Couldn't Beat Milwaukee Without Giannis

The Golden State Warriors blew a golden opportunity on Thursday night. They played the Milwaukee Bucks on the road, and the Bucks’ star Giannis Antetokounmpo was a late scratch from the game with knee soreness. The Warriors instantly became favorites in the game but weren’t able to take advantage of the Bucks’ misfortune and ended up losing the game 120-110.

Despite a 23-point double-double from Jimmy Butler, 27 points from Stephen Curry, and 24 points from Jonathan Kuminga, the Warriors were unable to get past the undermanned Bucks. 

After the loss, Draymond Green and Steve Kerr explained why it’s difficult to face a team without their star. 

“We’re like 0–12 the last couple years when the stars don’t play. Soon as you hear that the star’s out you’re terrified,” said Steve Kerr. 

“I mean, you're coming to the arena thinking the team’s star is playing. That's what you prepare for. … but they’re NBA players whether Giannis is out there or not,” explained Draymond Green. 

While there are no excuses in this league, the Warriors certainly looked like they weren’t prepared to play a Bucks team without Giannis. They turned the ball over 19 times and looked a bit lost on defense. This included allowing former Warriors’ draft pick Ryan Rollins to absolutely have his way with the Warriors’ defense. Rollins scored 32 points to lead all scorers. 

For the Warriors, this is a lesson. Never underestimate a team without its best player. When the star is out, it is an opportunity for the rest of the roster to prove themselves. They are that much hungrier and that much more locked in.