The Golden State Warriors have long been known as innovators when it comes to the game of basketball. From their small-ball lineup to their use of the “Death Lineup”, the Warriors have consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible on the court. On Thursday night, the Warriors unveiled a new strategy to defend Russell Westbrook: sagging off of him to leave him as open as possible.
The strategy, which was implemented by head coach Steve Kerr and Draymond Green, worked to perfection, as Westbrook scored only eight points on 3-of-12 shooting from the field and missed all five of his shots from beyond the arc. Speaking about the strategy after the game, Kerr praised Green for his role in the defense, saying, “Draymond, as a centerfielder is, I think, the best in the league. I mean, there’s nobody who can kind of muck up the lane like he can and just ready what’s happening, help everywhere he needs to help, and then come in and rebound.”
Green also revealed that the plan was formulated the day before the game, with Kerr sending him a text to hint at the game plan. Green also noted the effect that the strategy had on Westbrook mentally, saying, “We got Russ to miss some shots but I think when you have a game plan like that … what that does to you mentally is tough.”
The Warriors’ strategy worked to perfection on Thursday, but it remains to be seen if they will be able to replicate it in future matchups against the Clippers. However, it is clear that the Warriors are continuing to innovate and push the boundaries of the game, and that their unique strategy to defend Westbrook should be examined and studied by teams around the league.
