Warriors learn size and length still matter in loss to Cavaliers

Warriors learn size and length still matter in loss to Cavaliers originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

The perception that the Warriors are undersized is widely held among their fans, and it gains traction whenever they struggle against a team with superior length and size, as was the case in their recent loss to the Cavaliers.

Going up against a group of defenders with wingspans ranging from 6-foot-10 to 7-foot-6, the Warriors shot just 36.2 percent from the field in a 115-104 loss to the Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse.

One stat especially discouraging for Golden State was their 34.0 percent shooting inside the arc, including a 37.5 percent shooting percentage in the paint. This was undoubtedly a challenging match-up.

The size of their opponents presented a significant challenge for the Warriors. Additionally, they struggled with missed free throws, a lack of fast-break opportunities, and a poor second quarter where they shot a woeful 18.5 percent from the field.

However, it was Cleveland’s combination of daunting length and active defense that ultimately made the difference.

The Warriors’ roster may face challenges against opponents with greater size and length. This game was a prime example of that.

“We weren’t aggressive in the first half,” commented coach Steve Kerr. “They only had one blocked shot, but we were hesitant around the rim. There’s good reason for that. They’ve got two great shot-blockers, the No. 1 defense in the league last year, and they were coming off a couple of losses.”

Despite having a slight advantage in field-goal attempts during the first half, the Warriors struggled to find good looks at the rim. The Cavaliers only blocked two shots, but they altered many others and outscored the Warriors 58-24 in the paint.

An adjustment suggested by Klay Thompson was to attack the paint more aggressively.

Stephen Curry acknowledged the differences in the way teams approach the game, emphasizing the importance of making adjustments to beat specific opponents.

The faith that Curry and Thompson have in the coaches and veterans on the team is evident, as they believe a more aggressive mindset could be beneficial.

Indeed, size and length do matter, and the Warriors can only offer so much in that regard.

Kerr specifically called upon Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga, and Gary Payton II to embrace their athleticism, speed, and agility on both ends of the court, knowing that this roster needs their contributions.

Ever since Kevin Durant’s departure, the lack of size has been a concern for Dub Nation. However, the team’s response is a reminder that in the previous season, they finished as the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference and won the NBA Finals despite their height disadvantage.

However, the league has evolved rapidly, and the Warriors faced tough match-ups against taller opponents in recent seasons, highlighting the need for adjustments.

While the outcome of this game was disappointing, the Warriors will make the necessary adaptations. Yet, if this roster remains unchanged, they may encounter more challenges against teams with superior size and length.

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