The Golden State Warriors pulled off a stunning, emotional victory against the Phoenix Suns on Thursday night, proving that even without their star Steph Curry, they can still deliver a championship-caliber performance! The post-trade deadline win, which saw the Warriors rally from behind with a 22-5 run in the final stretch to secure a 101-97 victory, had head coach Steve Kerr exclaiming it "felt like we won a championship." This feel-good win deserves a closer look at the players who made it happen.
Let's dive into how each player performed, with grades based on individual expectations, where a 'B' signifies an average outing for that particular player. Remember, True-Shooting percentage (TS) is a key metric for scoring efficiency, factoring in three-pointers and free throws. For context, the league average TS entering Thursday's games was 57.9%.
Moses Moody
- Stats: 31 minutes, 6 points, 8 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 block, 1 turnover, 1 foul, 2-for-7 shooting, 2-for-7 threes, 42.9% TS, +4
Moses Moody faced a slightly less daunting task than usual with Devin Booker sidelined for the Suns. Yet, even without guarding an All-Star, Moody significantly impacted the game through his defense. While his offense wasn't spectacular, his defensive effort and rebounding were exceptional. His incredible hustle play in the closing seconds may have been the game-winner, earning him a half-grade boost.
- Grade: A-
- Post-game bonus: Tied for the team lead in rebounds.
Gui Santos
- Stats: 36 minutes, 18 points, 4 rebounds, 7 assists, 1 steal, 1 block, 3 turnovers, 2 fouls, 6-for-9 shooting, 3-for-6 threes, 3-for-5 free throws, 80.4% TS, +2
With Jimmy Butler III out for the season and Jonathan Kuminga traded, Gui Santos is stepping into a much larger role. If this game is any indication, that's incredibly exciting! Santos was a force on both ends of the court, showcasing his versatility and impact.
- Grade: A+
- Post-game bonus: Led the team in assists.
Draymond Green
- Stats: 24 minutes, 5 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 turnover, 1-for-3 shooting, 1-for-3 threes, 2-for-2 free throws, 64.4% TS, -1
While not Draymond Green's most dominant performance, his energy and demeanor clearly showed his relief at remaining with the team after the trade deadline. Having experienced being on the trade block for the first time, he expressed a desire to avoid it in the future. In this game, he embraced deferring to his teammates, which proved effective, complemented by his awesome defense.
- Grade: B
Pat Spencer
- Stats: 32 minutes, 20 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, 4 turnovers, 2 fouls, 6-for-11 shooting, 6-for-10 threes, 2-for-2 free throws, 84.2% TS, -3
This was Pat Spencer's final game on a two-way contract, and his stellar performance, including a career-high in points, running the offense effectively, and making crucial plays, will undoubtedly earn him a guaranteed deal now that the Warriors have created cap and roster space. While turnovers would normally lower his grade, the circumstances and his overall impact warrant a perfect score.
- Grade: A+ for performance and feel-good factor
- Post-game bonus: Led the team in points.
De’Anthony Melton
- Stats: 25 minutes, 17 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, 3 steals, 2 turnovers, 1 foul, 6-for-14 shooting, 2-for-9 threes, 3-for-4 free throws, 53.9% TS, +21
De’Anthony Melton is playing at an exceptionally high level right now, and his continued presence on the team through the deadline is a huge win. It not only means we get to enjoy his play this season but also suggests the Warriors are optimistic about retaining him for next year. But here's where it gets controversial... While his raw stats might not jump off the page, his plus/minus of +21 is a strong indicator of his impact. Many would argue that Melton was the primary catalyst for the Warriors' game-winning run.
- Grade: A
- Post-game bonus: Best plus/minus on the team.
Gary Payton II
- Stats: 19 minutes, 15 points, 8 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 1 block, 1 foul, 6-for-11 shooting, 3-for-6 threes, 68.2% TS, +4
Gary Payton II delivered a sensational all-around game. Despite often being the smallest player on the court, he secured the second-most rebounds in the entire game, trailing only Phoenix's center, and did so in under 20 minutes! His pivotal rebound in the final seconds was crucial. Combined with his expected strong defense and one of his best offensive outings, it's clear the Warriors likely wouldn't have won without him.
- Grade: A+
- Post-game bonus: Tied for the team lead in rebounds.
Brandin Podziemski
- Stats: 12 minutes, 0 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 turnover, 1 foul, 0-for-3 shooting, 0-for-3 threes, 0.0% TS, -21
Brandin Podziemski had a rough outing, but it's understandable given he was battling illness. He was so unwell that he had to remove himself from the game, which speaks volumes for a player known for his competitive spirit. His condition is so concerning that his availability for Saturday's game is uncertain.
- Grade: Feel better!
- Post-game bonus: Worst plus/minus on the team.
Al Horford
- Stats: 28 minutes, 13 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 block, 3 turnovers, 1 foul, 4-for-10 shooting, 2-for-5 threes, 3-for-5 free throws, 53.3% TS, 0 plus/minus
It's become increasingly evident why the Warriors were so eager to acquire Al Horford. One can only hope he decides to pick up his player option for the upcoming year.
- Grade: B
Will Richard
- Stats: 27 minutes, 7 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 2 fouls, 2-for-6 shooting, 1-for-4 threes, 2-for-2 free throws, 50.9% TS, +16
It's likely we'll see Will Richard take on a more significant role as the season progresses, and watching that unfold will be exciting. His defense in this game was truly remarkable. How did this player fall to the second round? He's an absolute baller!
- Grade: A-
Quinten Post
- Stats: 6 minutes, 0 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 foul, 0-for-2 shooting, 0-for-2 threes, 0.0% TS, -2
It's a fantastic opportunity for Quinten Post to learn from Kristaps Porziņģis.
- Grade: B-
Thursday’s DNP-CDs: Malevy Leons
Thursday’s inactives: Jimmy Butler III, LJ Cryer, Seth Curry, Steph Curry, Kristaps Porziņģis
Now, let's talk about the game itself. Was De'Anthony Melton truly the unsung hero of that comeback, or do you think another player deserves more credit? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
