What We Learned as Warriors Outlast Pelicans in Steph Curry’s Return
outlast Pelicans In a highly anticipated matchup on March 29, 2025, the Golden State Warriors hosted the New Orleans Pelicans, marking the return of their superstar guard, Stephen Curry, after a two-game absence. The Warriors triumphed 111-95 in a game where Curry’s presence helped to ignite a dominating second-half performance. outlast Pelicans However, there were several key takeaways from this victory that will shape Golden State’s strategy as they head into the crucial final stretch of the season. From Curry’s impact on the court to the Warriors’ continued depth, here’s what we learned from the game.
Table of Contents
1. Curry’s Impact on the Warriors’ Offense is Unmatched
A Slow Start but a Strong Finish
outlast Pelicans Stephen Curry’s return to the lineup was nothing short of a spectacle. Despite being sidelined for two games due to a pelvic contusion, the reigning NBA Finals MVP showed little to no signs of rust. Although Curry got off to a quiet start, scoring just three points in the first quarter, it didn’t take long for him to find his rhythm. By the end of the game, he finished with 23 points and displayed the sharp shooting and playmaking that the Warriors have sorely missed.
Curry’s return highlighted how critical he is to the Warriors’ offensive system. His spacing and ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates are unmatched. As the game progressed, Curry began hitting three-pointers, attacking the basket, and contributing in transition. His performance was the catalyst that turned a back-and-forth contest into a one-sided affair in the second half, where the Warriors outscored the Pelicans 28-13 in the final quarter.
The Offense Revolves Around Him
Even though Golden State has plenty of talent in its roster, Curry’s return proved that everything still revolves around him. His ability to draw defensive attention opens up shooting lanes for others. With defenders often forced to collapse on him, Curry’s court vision and passing make him the engine that drives the Warriors’ ball movement.
In the absence of Curry, the Warriors’ offense was often stagnant. Players like Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, and Andrew Wiggins are key contributors, but they all benefit from Curry’s gravity on the court. This win reaffirmed that when Curry is on the floor, the entire offense flows more naturally and becomes more difficult to defend.
2. The Warriors’ Depth Continues to Shine
Bench Players Step Up
While Curry’s return was the highlight, the victory was a true team effort. Golden State’s depth was on full display, with several players contributing significantly, particularly from the bench. Jonathan Kuminga had a standout performance, scoring 16 points and providing energy throughout the game. Kuminga’s versatility and athleticism are key assets for the Warriors, especially as they look to strengthen their bench rotation heading into the playoffs.
Another important contributor was Quinten Post, who scored 15 points and provided solid minutes off the bench. Post’s ability to stretch the floor and provide scoring when needed gives the Warriors a reliable secondary option, especially in the absence of a consistent scoring big man. With James Wiseman and Gary Payton II both being sidelined, Golden State’s depth will be vital as they navigate the rest of the regular season.
In addition to Kuminga and Post, Jimmy Butler III contributed with 18 points and 10 rebounds, showcasing his all-around abilities. Butler has become a reliable contributor for the Warriors and continues to make his case for a more prominent role as the season progresses.
Versatility in the Rotation
The Warriors’ depth isn’t just about individual players—it’s about how the rotation functions as a whole. Coach Steve Kerr has been able to experiment with various lineups, knowing that players like Moses Moody, JaMychal Green, and Donte DiVincenzo can step in and provide meaningful minutes. Kerr’s ability to rotate his players without a noticeable drop-off in performance allows Golden State to sustain high-level play even during extended stretches of the game.
3. Pelicans’ Struggles Without Zion Williamson
New Orleans Needs Zion
While the Warriors capitalized on their strengths, the Pelicans were once again without their star forward, Zion Williamson, who is recovering from a foot injury. New Orleans, despite strong performances from Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum, clearly lacked the offensive punch and defensive presence that Zion provides. The Pelicans struggled to generate consistent scoring, particularly in the second half when Golden State’s defense tightened up.
Williamson’s absence has been a key factor in New Orleans’ inconsistent performance this season. The Pelicans have had difficulty maintaining momentum without their franchise player, and it’s evident that they’re missing his scoring and rebounding presence. Although Ingram scored 24 points and McCollum added 18, the Pelicans simply don’t have enough firepower to contend with a fully-healthy Warriors squad.
Ingram and McCollum Can’t Do It Alone
While Ingram and McCollum are capable scorers, the Pelicans lack a third option to consistently step up. Herbert Jones and Trey Murphy III have shown flashes of potential, but they’re still developing and aren’t at the level required to help New Orleans contend with top teams in the Western Conference. The absence of Zion leaves the Pelicans relying on a patchwork roster that, while talented, lacks the depth and star power needed for a deep playoff run.
4. The Warriors’ Defense Steps Up in the Second Half
Defensive Adjustments
Although the Warriors weren’t flawless on defense in the first half, they adjusted in the second, limiting the Pelicans to just 13 points in the final quarter. Golden State’s defense has often been a question mark this season, but on this night, their ability to close out games was a major positive. With Curry back in the lineup, the Warriors’ defense became more cohesive, as they forced the Pelicans into tough shots and limited their fast-break opportunities.
Draymond Green played a crucial role in directing the defense, as always, and he was instrumental in shutting down the Pelicans’ interior offense. Green’s versatility and leadership on defense allow the Warriors to switch effectively and stifle opposing offenses. The team’s ability to guard the pick-and-roll and contest shots from the perimeter was a key factor in their victory.
Securing the Paint
The Warriors’ interior defense was another bright spot in the game. Without a traditional shot-blocker in the lineup, the Warriors used their quickness and awareness to protect the paint. Golden State’s big men, such as Kevon Looney and JaMychal Green, were able to contest shots and collect rebounds, keeping the Pelicans from gaining easy points in the paint.
5. Warriors Still Have Work to Do in Playoff Push
Importance of Health
With Curry back in action, the Warriors are a much stronger team. However, the team’s health will remain the biggest factor in their playoff push. While Curry’s return to full health is a huge boost, the Warriors will need consistent contributions from players like Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, and Andrew Wiggins to round out their lineup. The Warriors also need to stay healthy down the stretch to ensure they have the depth to compete against other championship contenders in the postseason.
A Tough Road Ahead
The Warriors’ victory against the Pelicans was important, but they still have tough matchups ahead in the final weeks of the regular season. Golden State needs to continue building momentum and securing victories to avoid the play-in tournament. Their upcoming games against playoff-caliber teams will be key in determining their final positioning in the standings.
Conclusion: Warriors Are Ready for a Playoff Push
In their win against the Pelicans, the Golden State Warriors showed that they are poised for a strong finish to the season. Stephen Curry’s return injected energy and confidence into the team, and their depth was crucial in securing the win. While the Pelicans struggled without Zion Williamson, Golden State capitalized on their opportunities, showcasing the offensive potency that makes them one of the most dangerous teams in the NBA.
As the regular season nears its conclusion, the Warriors have a lot of work ahead of them, but with Curry back in the fold and their depth shining, they are well-positioned for a playoff run.
