Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone understands that Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry is truly a generational talent. Still, Malone expects his Nuggets to go all-out in trying to stop the legendary shooter whenever they take him on. Such was the case on Thursday, as the Nuggets tried their best to slow down the two-time MVP.
Here's what coach Malone told his guys, per an Associated Press report:
“I told them, ‘Guys, listen, when he makes his shots, don't look over at me and say I played good defense when you didn't.' This guy is otherworldly, in terms of his talent and shooting ability. You have to guard him with that in mind.”
Entering Thursday's Western Conference showdown with the Nuggets, Stephen Curry had struggled in back-to-back games. But he came out firing early in the first quarter against Denver and waxed hot from the field. Malone's pep talk didn't seem to work, as the three-time NBA champion still finished with a game-high 35 points along with 11 rebounds, four assists, and two steals. He nailed 14 of his 23 field goals and went 5-for-11 from distance in 37 minutes.
But in the end, the Nuggets still prevailed with a decisive114-104 win. Nikola Jokic led the way with yet another triple-double performance of 23 points, 14 rebounds, and 10 assists in 36 minutes. Jamal Murray and Will Barton, who both spent time covering Curry, added 17 apiece.
Many coaches, meanwhile, have already tried multiple schemes in an effort to slow down Stephen Curry's impeccable shooting ability, including the box-and-1. As far as Michael Malone is concerned, it takes great effort and maybe a little bit of luck to hold him down.
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