The Golden State Warriors faced another disappointing outcome, losing to the Los Angeles Clippers, which has left fans questioning the coaching decisions of Steve Kerr. After the Warriors missed an opportunity to secure a playoff spot against the San Antonio Spurs, many saw this latest loss coming due to Kerr’s rotations and player management. This game exposed deep-rooted issues within the Warriors as they continue to struggle with their identity as a playoff contender.

Kerr’s decision to not utilize Jonathan Kaminga effectively while opting for a four-guard lineup raises eyebrows. The absence of key players like Ge Santos in critical moments led to a considerable rebounding disadvantage, with the Warriors getting outrebounded 42 to 25 by the Clippers. The size disparity made it hard for Golden State to compete effectively, highlighting a glaring oversight in Kerr’s game strategy. The Warriors’ lack of size against a more formidable Clippers team ultimately played a significant role in their defeat.

In overtime, when the Warriors had a chance to tie the game, Kerr drew up a play for Buddy Heald instead of star player Steph Curry, a questionable decision that led to a poor shot attempt. This moment underscored a larger trend in Kerr’s coaching—his tendency to prioritize shooting over defensive capability. By relying on smaller lineups, he inadvertently creates mismatches that are easily exploited by opponents.

Defensively, the Warriors allowed the Clippers to shoot an astounding 56% from the field and 47% from beyond the arc, showing that their small-ball lineup is not equipped to handle playoff-caliber competition. The repeated use of a three-guard setup, which has helped the team at times, often leaves them vulnerable against larger, more physical opponents.

One could argue that improperly managing player combinations is the root of the Warriors’ woes. The equation of starting Steph Curry, Moses Moody, and GP2 together fails to provide the defensive support needed for a deep playoff run. Moreover, Kerr’s failure to adjust rotations or bring in size when needed exposes the team to significant defensive shortcomings.

As the Warriors navigate the play-in tournament, there is still hope for redemption. However, that hope relies on adjustments from Steve Kerr. Emphasizing a better mix of players who can both score and defend is essential for the Warriors to progress. With talent like Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler at their disposal, the team has the potential to make noise in the playoffs, provided Kerr can improve his coaching decisions.

Ultimately, the question remains: can Kerr evolve his strategies to ensure the Warriors fulfill their potential? Only time will tell, but it seems clear that if changes aren’t made, another playoff disappointment could be on the horizon for Golden State. It’s time for Kerr to prioritize a balanced approach to maximize the Warriors’ strengths as they aim for postseason success.