Kerr Blasts “Awful” Performance After Golden State’s 7-Game Run Ends; Reaves, Harden Shine in Thrilling Comebacks

The Golden State Warriors’ seven-game win streak came to a jarring halt Monday night as the Denver Nuggets, despite missing two-time MVP Nikola Jokic, delivered a masterclass in resilience with a 114-105 victory at Chase Center. Aaron Gordon seized the spotlight, erupting for a season-high 38 points—his best performance since joining Denver in 2021—to stun the home crowd and draw scathing criticism from Warriors coach Steve Kerr. 

“We played poorly out of the gate and never found rhythm. They played great—the right team won. We didn’t deserve anything. We were awful,” Kerr said, lambasting his team’s disjointed effort. The Warriors, now sixth in the West, struggled to contain Gordon, who dominated the paint and beyond, shooting 14-of-20 from the field. 
 
Gordon’s career night overshadowed a historic milestone for Russell Westbrook, who notched his 203rd career triple-double (12 points, 11 rebounds, 16 assists) off the bench. Stephen Curry managed 20 points for Golden State but shot just 6-of-19, while Klay Thompson added 15 in a subdued outing. 
 
Elsewhere, the Los Angeles Lakers capitalized on a 30-point explosion from Austin Reaves to down the San Antonio Spurs 125-109, climbing to fifth in the West. D’Angelo Russell contributed 22 points and 6 assists in LeBron James’ continued absence. 

In Philadelphia, the Houston Rockets engineered a jaw-dropping comeback, erasing a 25-point third-quarter deficit to stun the 76ers 144-137 in overtime. James Harden fueled the rally with 31 points and 14 assists, while Tyrese Maxey’s 39 points went to waste for the collapsing Sixers. 
 
The Minnesota Timberwolves survived a 34-point outburst from Indiana’s Obi Toppin, escaping with a 132-130 overtime win. Anthony Edwards dropped 35 points, including a clutch step-back three to force OT, keeping Minnesota within a game of the West-leading Thunder. 

Quick Hits
Knicks 116, Heat 95: Jalen Brunson’s 28 points powered New York past a listless Miami squad, tightening their grip on third in the East. 

Pistons 127, Pelicans 81: Detroit’s shocking 46-point rout of New Orleans featured seven Pistons in double figures, offering a rare bright spot in their dismal season. 

Standings Watch
Denver (4th West) and Golden State (6th) remain locked in a tight playoff race, while Houston’s surge keeps them second in the conference. The Lakers lurk just 1.5 games behind the Warriors, setting the stage for a frenetic final stretch. 


Why It Matters: The Warriors’ stumble cracks open the West’s playoff picture, while Gordon’s breakout game proves Denver’s depth. With Harden and Reaves stealing headlines in comeback fashion, the NBA’s late-season drama is heating up.