The Golden State Warriors opened their season on a strong note Wednesday with a 139-104 drubbing of the Portland Trail Blazers.
Buddy Hield led the scoring in his debut for the Warriors with 22 points off the bench, built on 5-of-7 shooting from long distance. Andrew Wiggins added 20 points, while Steph Curry almost had a triple-double of 17 points, nine rebounds and 10 assists.
A total of 14 players suited up for the Warriors against the Trail Blazers. While it was understandable in a rout, Warriors coach Steve Kerr said playing at least 12 guys a night could be a regular strategy.
“I’ve never played 12 before, but we’re going to do it," said Kerr in a report from NBC Sports Bay Area's Monte Poole. "It’s not easy on anybody, but we just have to trust that from one night to the next.
"We’re going to find guys and combinations that really work."
The 36-year-old Curry said the extended rotation could work wonders for their morale and confidence, creating a "beautiful locker room." But Curry had an important reminder.
Golden State Warriors guard Steph Curry reacts against the Portland Trail Blazers.
Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images
“You have to have a commitment," said the two-time MVP in the same report. "No agendas. No egos. Well, healthy egos. When you’re out there, you know you’re supposed to be out there.
"But if it’s not your night, you can’t bring the team down with your energy. I haven’t seen any red flags with that.”
All 14 players who suited up for the Warriors saw at least five minutes of court time.
Curry touted their depth, saying it could hopefully "overwhelm" opposing squads. The Warriors got 70 points from the bench in their season-opening win.
They will next face the Utah Jazz on Friday in Salt Lake City.
