Image Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images

“Soft Is the Word” – Draymond Green Labels Warriors’ Defense Weak Following Collapse Against Rockets

Image Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images

The Golden State Warriors fell to 10-10 after a 104-100 defeat to the Houston Rockets on Wednesday night, a loss marked by repeated breakdowns and capped by a blunt postgame assessment from Draymond Green.

Green, the team’s emotional anchor, did not temper his words. “Our defense is s–––,” he said, describing the collective effort as unacceptable. His frustration reflected a night in which Golden State surrendered 25 offensive rebounds and failed to respond in crucial moments.

The collapse was compounded by Stephen Curry’s exit in the fourth quarter with a quad injury. Curry absorbed multiple hits, including collisions with Amen Thompson and Alperen Sengun, before being removed by lead medical decision-maker Rick Celebrini. Head coach Steve Kerr later expressed relief that the injury was not to Curry’s ankle or knee, but acknowledged the timing was difficult for a team already sliding.

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Green’s criticism was not directed at individuals but at the group as a whole. He emphasized that the defensive rating, which places the Warriors 10th, does not reflect the reality on the floor. “It’s not necessarily the numbers,” he explained. “Defense is about demeanor. If there’s letdown, it kills your bravado. Then you’re just a soft team.”

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Jimmy Butler echoed the sentiment, noting that Golden State fails to box out, ignores scouting reports, and allows opponents to dictate play. The Rockets capitalized on those weaknesses, shooting 39-for-99 but repeatedly earning second chances through hustle and rebounding. Jabari Smith Jr. and Reed Sheppard were central to Houston’s energy, securing key boards and making winning plays down the stretch.

Green highlighted that the accountability rests with everyone. “We are individually f—ing awful,” he said, clarifying that the blame is shared across the roster. The uncertainty surrounding Curry’s injury only heightens the urgency. Butler remarked that if Curry misses time, the team must be “damn near perfect” to remain competitive.

There was at least one positive development as Jonathan Kuminga scrimmaged earlier in the day and is aiming to return for Saturday’s matchup. His presence could provide a boost to a roster in need of depth and defensive intensity.