Stephen Curry’s Christmas Day performances have been a topic of discussion among NBA fans, with the recent game against the Denver Nuggets adding another underwhelming entry to the list. In the latest Christmas Day matchup against the Denver Nuggets, Curry recorded 18 points while shooting 7-21 from the field.
This performance falls in line with previous Christmas Day games where Curry faced challenges in scoring efficiently. Despite his incredible talent and shooting ability, Christmas Day seems to bring about a unique set of challenges for the Golden State Warriors star.
One fan suggested that Curry hates big nights.
The game against the Nuggets featured a competitive battle, with the Denver team ultimately securing a 120-114 victory. Jamal Murray led the Nuggets with 28 points, and Nikola Jokic contributed 26 points, going a perfect 18-of-18 from the free-throw line. Jokic’s performance, including a career-high in made free throws, played a crucial role in the Nuggets extending their winning streak to five games.
While Curry’s struggles on Christmas Day have become a noticeable pattern, it’s important to note that individual game performances do not define a player’s overall greatness. Curry remains one of the most influential and accomplished players in NBA history, with numerous records and accolades to his name.
The Warriors, despite the Christmas Day loss, have been competitive this season, and Curry’s impact on the team’s success goes beyond any single game. As the season progresses, fans can expect Curry to bounce back from individual setbacks and continue to showcase his exceptional skills on the court.
Steve Kerr Slams NBA Officials
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr expressed his dissatisfaction with NBA officiating, particularly regarding the fouls called during the game against the Denver Nuggets, which the Warriors lost 120-114. The focal point of Kerr’s frustration was Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic, who attempted and made 18 free throws during the game, setting an NBA record for the most free throws without a miss on Christmas Day.
Kerr voiced his concern about the increasing trend of players manipulating referees and emphasized his disapproval of how fouling is being adjudicated across the league. He argued that the current approach is “enabling players to B.S. their way to the foul line” and lamented the impact on the viewing experience for fans, describing it as “disgusting.”
The Warriors coach criticized the parade to the free-throw line, pointing out that players have become adept at baiting referees into making calls. Kerr acknowledged the intelligence of players in the league, noting that they have become more strategic in exploiting the rules over the past decade.
Warriors star Stephen Curry chimed in, highlighting the inconsistency in officiating and the challenge of defending when there’s a disparity in how physicality is called on each side. Curry also pointed out that players who can effectively “sell calls” tend to benefit from referees’ decisions.
While Nuggets guard Jamal Murray defended the practice, distinguishing between selling calls and flopping Kerr’s frustration reflects a broader concern within the NBA about the impact of officiating on the flow and fairness of the game. The league may need to address these concerns to ensure a consistent and fair application of the rules, maintaining the integrity of the competition.