Warriors Beat Bucks 120–113: Player Grades and Key Takeaways

The Golden State Warriors kicked off their eight-game homestand with a strong 120–113 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday night, a game that was more commanding than the final score suggests. While the margin of victory was just seven points, the Warriors controlled the game for much of the contest, showcasing the blend of veteran leadership and emerging talent that has made them a perennial threat at Chase Center.

Head coach Steve Kerr opted for a shortened rotation of just ten players, focusing on efficiency and key matchups. The result was a mix of standout performances from stars and solid contributions from role players. Here’s a closer look at how each contributor performed and their grades from the contest.

Andre Butler – B+

• Stats: 32 minutes, 21 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, 2 turnovers, 3 fouls, 6-15 FG, 1-5 3PT, 8-9 FT, 55.4% TS, -4

Butler played a critical role in keeping the Warriors afloat while Steph Curry rested. Although not his most efficient scoring night, Butler’s intelligence and defensive awareness shone, particularly in a pivotal moment late in the first half. Drawing a crucial foul on Giannis Antetokounmpo, Butler forced the reigning MVP to the bench with foul trouble and ignited an 11-0 run that swung momentum in Golden State’s favor. His combination of savvy decision-making and clutch defense makes him an unsung hero on nights like this.

Draymond Green – A

• Stats: 29 minutes, 14 points, 3 rebounds, 7 assists, 1 steal, 1 turnover, 5 fouls, 5-12 FG, 3-8 3PT, 1-2 FT, 54.3% TS, -10

Green’s defense on Giannis was a masterclass in timing, positioning, and anticipation. While Antetokounmpo still scored 35 points, the effort forced tough shots and disrupted Milwaukee’s offensive rhythm. Beyond defense, Green orchestrated the offense with seven assists and only one turnover, showing his dual impact as a defensive anchor and floor general. His two critical threes in the fourth quarter helped extinguish a Bucks run, underlining his value in clutch situations. Green is hitting his stride at the perfect time for the Warriors.

Andrew Post – B

• Stats: 19 minutes, 11 points, 1 rebound, 3 assists, 1 foul, 5-8 FG, 1-3 3PT, 68.8% TS, -12

Post had a smooth offensive night, knocking down mid-range jumpers and creative baby-hooks in the paint. However, his defense and rebounding left something to be desired, especially against Milwaukee’s athletic frontcourt. While he contributed meaningfully on offense, his overall impact was more average, hence the grade of B.

Moses Moody – B+

• Stats: 28 minutes, 9 points, 2 rebounds, 1 steal, 3-7 FG, 3-6 3PT, 64.3% TS, 0 +/-

Moody quietly played a smart, mistake-free game on both ends of the floor. Nearly 28 minutes without committing a turnover or a foul is remarkable in a frenetic contest, and he consistently made the right choices with the ball. Moody’s efficiency, decision-making, and ability to knock down open threes make him a dependable rotation player for Golden State.

Stephen Curry – A+

• Stats: 34 minutes, 31 points, 6 rebounds, 7 assists, 1 turnover, 12-21 FG, 3-9 3PT, 4-5 FT, 66.8% TS, +16

Curry took over the game when it mattered most, particularly in the third quarter, scoring 16 points to establish control. His scoring was complemented by precise playmaking, as he tied for the team lead in assists while committing only one turnover. Curry’s ability to create opportunities for teammates while maintaining his scoring threat was critical to the Warriors’ victory. Nights like this remind fans why he remains the heartbeat of the team.

Cole Podziemski – A-

• Stats: 22 minutes, 2 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, 1 foul, 1-5 FG, 0-2 3PT, 20% TS, +19

Podziemski contributed in every way except scoring, impacting rebounding, passing, and defense. His efforts helped the Warriors control the assist, rebound, and turnover battles—crucial stats in a close matchup. While not flashy, Podziemski’s all-around contribution was essential for maintaining Golden State’s rhythm.

Santos – B+

• Stats: 18 minutes, 2 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 2 turnovers, 1 foul, 1-3 FG, 0-1 3PT, 33.3% TS, +12

Santos made the most of his minutes, particularly on defense and with court awareness. While he had a few uncharacteristic mistakes, his overall performance reinforced why Kerr trusts him as a rotation player. His understanding of spacing and passing lanes was critical in supporting Curry and Green on both ends.

Jordan Melton – A+

• Stats: 25 minutes, 22 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 STL, 3 FOULS, 8-12 FG, 5-9 3PT, 1-2 FT, 85.4% TS, +4

Melton is officially back in rhythm after a stretch of inconsistency. His scoring was efficient, and he contributed without forcing plays. Melton’s ability to fit seamlessly within the team’s system makes him a reliable offensive spark and defensive asset.

Al Horford – A+

• Stats: 19 minutes, 8 points, 10 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 blocks, 2 turnovers, 3-6 FG, 2-4 3PT, 66.7% TS, +9

Horford delivered a vintage performance: threes, screens, rebounding, defensive positioning, and precise passing. His veteran presence and all-around impact were critical in supporting the team’s stars and ensuring balance across the floor.

Ryan Richard – B-

• Stats: 13 minutes, 0 points, 1 rebound, 1 foul, +1

Richard’s minutes were limited, but he showcased composure as a rookie, avoiding mistakes and playing within his role. While not impactful offensively, his floor awareness and maturity were promising signs.

DNP-CDs: Buddy Hield, Trayce Jackson-Davis, Jonathan Kuminga, Pat Spencer
Inactives: LJ Cryer, Seth Curry, Malevy Leons, Gary Payton II

Key Takeaways

• Star Power: Curry and Green continue to carry the Warriors in high-pressure games, elevating both offense and defense.

• Bench Impact: Podziemski and Melton contributed in meaningful ways, proving Golden State has depth beyond its stars.

• Defense & Discipline: The Warriors controlled the assist, rebound, and turnover battles, which was decisive against a strong Milwaukee team.

• Momentum for Homestand: With this victory, Golden State starts its eight-game homestand on a positive note, building momentum for a critical stretch of games.

This game highlighted the Warriors’ blend of veteran savvy, emerging talent, and star dominance. If they can maintain this balance, Golden State will remain a threat in the Western Conference, and home-court advantage will continue to matter.