The Golden State Warriors’ seven-game winning streak came to an end on Monday night with a 114-105 loss to the Denver Nuggets, despite Nikola Jokic’s absence.

Stephen Curry had an uncharacteristically rough night, shooting just 6-of-21 from the field and committing seven turnovers.

Warriors head coach Steve Kerr attributed Curry’s struggles to fatigue, but Jimmy Butler had a defiant message for the team moving forward.

Butler’s Call to Action

Butler, who joined the Warriors via trade earlier this season, emphasized that it’s the team’s responsibility to step up when Curry isn’t at his best. “It’s okay to be tired. That’s on myself and that’s on us as a unit to pick up the slack for him,” Butler said.

“As much as everybody wants to think that he’s superhuman, he’s not. He is our leader, and we must protect him at all times. That’s on myself for sure. But everybody else [has] to make sure that we’re doing what we’re supposed to be doing to give him a break.”

Butler also highlighted the need for better execution to ease the burden on Curry. “Make sure we don’t turn the ball over, one. Make sure we get a good shot on goal. Execute. Whenever you execute and get the ball where it needs to go, that’s my job more than anybody’s. And maybe Dray’s. [Then we make Steph’s] life easier,” he added.

The Warriors have long prided themselves on their depth, and the addition of Butler has restored balance to the roster.

While Curry remains the team’s catalyst, the Warriors will need contributions from everyone to secure a strong playoff position and avoid the play-in tournament.

This challenge could come as soon as Tuesday night, as Curry may rest against the Milwaukee Bucks to recover from his fatigue.

Butler’s leadership and determination reflect the Warriors’ ethos of teamwork and resilience.

As the season progresses, Golden State will rely on their depth and collective effort to support Curry and make a deep playoff run.

The Philadelphia 76ers made a roster move on Friday night, signing Oshae Brissett to a 10-day contract. Brissett, a former Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers player, now gets another chance to prove himself in the NBA.

The forward was part of the Celtics’ championship-winning team last season, appearing in 55 regular-season games and 10 playoff games.

One of his standout moments came in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Pacers, where he contributed two points, three rebounds, and three steals in just 12 minutes to help Boston secure a win.

After failing to secure an NBA deal for the 2024-25 season, Brissett spent most of the year playing for the Long Island Nets, the G-League affiliate of the Brooklyn Nets.

His signing with the 76ers marks a return to the league, and he made an immediate impact in his debut.

Strong Debut in Philadelphia

Brissett had an impressive first game with the Sixers, scoring 14 points on 5-of-8 shooting, including 3-of-5 from three-point range.

Despite his efforts, the 76ers fell 112-100 to the Pacers. Brissett’s performance showcased his potential to contribute at the NBA level, and he’ll look to build on this opportunity in Philadelphia.

Ties to the Celtics and Support from Jayson Tatum

Brissett’s time with the Celtics left a lasting bond with his former teammates, including star forward Jayson Tatum.

Following Brissett’s debut with the 76ers, Tatum expressed his support for his former teammate. “That’s my brother,” Tatum said. “Happy for him. He definitely deserves to be in the league, so hopefully he finds a home – even if it’s in Philadelphia.”

A Journey Through the NBA

Before his stints with the Celtics and Pacers, Brissett began his NBA career with the Toronto Raptors during the 2019-20 season.

Now, with the 76ers, he has another chance to carve out a role in the league. Brissett’s versatility and energy could make him a valuable asset for Philadelphia as they navigate the remainder of the season.

Brissett’s journey reflects the resilience and determination required to succeed in the NBA.

As he looks to make the most of his 10-day contract, the 76ers and their fans will be watching closely to see if he can secure a more permanent spot on the roster.

The Washington Wizards pulled off a stunning upset against the Denver Nuggets, thanks to a clutch performance from Jordan Poole.

Despite being heavy underdogs, the Wizards fought back from a 16-point deficit to tie the game late in the fourth quarter.

With just four seconds left on the clock and the score tied at 123-123, Poole stepped up and drained a deep three-pointer from the wing to seal a 126-123 victory.

Nikola Jokic’s desperate heave at the buzzer fell short, securing the win for Washington.

Fans were quick to celebrate Poole’s heroics on social media. @hoopsenjoyer515 exclaimed, “Poole Party in the mile-high, get your life jackets, he’s going in from the deep!” Others drew comparisons to Russell Westbrook’s iconic game-winner against the Nuggets in 2016. This time, however, it was Westbrook—now playing for Denver—who had to endure the heartbreak instead of delivering it.

Some fans were left in disbelief by the outcome. @worldofwreck reacted, “What? Jordan Poole for the win in Denver… did I read that right?” Sean Barnard also chimed in, praising Poole’s boldness: “Jordan Poole is a psycho for that being the shot selection, but that is why he is Jordan Poole.”

Poole finished the game with 19 points on an efficient 7-of-11 shooting, along with six assists, a steal, and a block.

While Poole’s game-winner stole the spotlight, rookie Alex Sarr had a breakout performance, exploding for 34 points in his best game as a Wizard.

The Wizards, now 15-51, are far removed from playoff contention. However, strong performances from their young core, like Sarr’s standout night, offer hope for the future.

Washington’s next game is against the Portland Trail Blazers, where they’ll look to build on this thrilling victory. For now, the spotlight remains on Poole, whose audacious shot secured one of the most memorable wins of the Wizards’ season.