The Big Issue with the Golden State Warriors Rotation
The Golden State Warriors suffered a tough 10-point loss to the Houston Rockets on Sunday, following a critical defeat against a depleted San Antonio Spurs team only three days later. These crucial losses have placed the Warriors in must-win territory in their final two games. A common thread in both losses has been the team’s inconsistency on offense, particularly in different parts of the rotation. Against Houston, the Warriors’ starters were outscored 81–40, while versus the Spurs, the bench faltered, getting outscored 50–26. While player performance plays a role, it's fair to question whether head coach Steve Kerr should shoulder some of the responsibility for these inconsistencies.
In the loss to San Antonio, Moses Moody, and Brandin Podziemski combined for 64 minutes but managed only 14 points on a rough six-for-22 shooting night. It’s important to acknowledge that both players have earned their minutes through solid performances over the season. However, coaching decisions need to reflect what the team needs at the moment—not just long-term development or previous efforts. Kerr has long emphasized the importance of riding the hot hand, yet on this particular night, that principle seemed to be overlooked. Every game matters at this point in the season, and lineups should reflect the urgency.
Jonathan Kuminga, for instance, played just 18 minutes in that same game but tallied an efficient 12 points on 50 percent shooting. He had it going early and looked like one of the few Warriors who could provide a scoring spark, yet he remained on the bench for most of the game. An extended run for Kuminga could have helped shift the momentum and possibly the outcome. Notably, in the Warriors’ last seven wins, Kuminga played over 20 minutes in each of them—except two, in one of which he logged only six minutes due to injury. When the bench is utilized effectively, the Warriors become a much more dangerous and balanced team.
Kuminga currently leads all Warriors bench players in scoring, averaging 15.4 points per game and 22.6 points per 36 minutes. With the team battling for a playoff spot and trying to avoid the Play-In tournament, Steve Kerr has to maximize his most reliable bench weapon—especially on nights when the starters struggle. The Warriors now face two critical matchups: against the Portland Trail Blazers and a huge showdown with the LA Clippers on April 13th. Both games carry playoff implications, and lineup decisions will be under an even bigger microscope. If Kerr can adapt and play to the strengths of his roster in real time, the Warriors still have a shot at making a deep postseason run.
