After a hard-fought 114-102 victory over the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday, March 4, Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr had a lot to say about the state of the team and the significance of the win.
Steve Kerr Raves About the Warriors’ Identity
“It was a really good win. They all count, obviously, but it felt good, you know, on the road on a back-to-back against a great team,” Kerr said. “Kind of hanging in there when shots weren’t going in in the first half. I just liked how solid we were in the whole 48.
“Every possession mattered, there was purpose, and Jimmy [Butler III] has a lot to do with that. But I give all of our guys a lot of credit because they’re finding a real identity, and it’s fun to watch unfold.”
Steve Kerr said the Warriors are developing a “real identity.”
What is it?
“Two-way team. Last 10 games, I think we are second in both offense and defense. Small sample size, but that’s when we got Jimmy.” pic.twitter.com/wSMP41Gu5A
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) March 5, 2025
When asked what he means by a real identity, Kerr elaborated.
“Two-way team. Last 10 games, I think we are second in both offense and defense,” Kerr stated. “Small sample size, but that’s when we got Jimmy.”
The Trade That Fueled the Warriors’ Turnaround
As Kerr pointed out, the blockbuster addition of Butler has this team looking significantly better on both ends of the floor. Once a subject of skepticism among critics and even some NBA analysts, Butler’s arrival has injected a new dynamism into the Warriors’ lineup.
In exchange for Andrew Wiggins, Kyle Anderson, Dennis Schröder, Lindy Waters III, and a top-10 protected first-round pick, the trade was initially viewed as a high-risk move due to Butler’s age. However, the subsequent impact on the team has removed all doubt.
Since the trade, the Warriors have gone 9-2 in games featuring Butler in the lineup. His ability to draw fouls and create scoring opportunities not only takes some pressure off Stephen Curry but he also injects a sense of urgency and grit into each game.
“What he’s adding is that maturity and poise,” Kerr remarked after the win, comparing Butler to former Warrior Andre Iguodala in terms of his influence and ability to see the game.
The Warriors’ transformation has been multifaceted. Statistically, the team’s performance has seen a significant uplift. With Butler in the rotation, Golden State has climbed to second in defensive rating and fourth in offensive rating over the span of just a few games.
The team is no longer merely relying on Curry’s heroics but has instead embraced a more balanced approach that leverages contributions from multiple players.
During the recent win over the Knicks, Curry once again showcased his elite scoring ability, registering 28 points, nine assists, and a series of timely three-pointers.
30 IN THE GARDEN ‼️
📺 @NBCSAuthentic pic.twitter.com/F9NFzLUetU
— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) March 5, 2025
Yet, Butler’s two-way contributions can’t be ignored.
Butler’s 19 points, combined with his knack for drawing attention from opposing defenses, allowed his teammates to find open looks and capitalize on transition opportunites. The result was a well-orchastrated comeback, culminating in a dominant four-minute stretch in which the Knicks were held scoreless.
The Warriors are evolving into a complete two-way unit, reminding Golden State fans of the balanced two-way dominance that was the hallmark of their championship teams.
There is a palpable energy and collective belief that the Warriors could be on the cusp of something special. If the team can maintain this balance and continue to execute on both ends of the court, the championship window could still very well be open.
