Warriors’ Steve Kerr Sends Strong Message About Unsung Hero

The Golden State Warriors defeated the Denver Nuggets 128-117 on Sunday at Chase Center.

Moses Moody led the way with 23 points, seven rebounds, and five assists. The performance continued a six-week stretch that has head coach Steve Kerr calling Moody the Warriors’ most consistent player.

What Kerr Said About Moody

Kerr did not hold back his praise after Sunday’s win.

“Moses has been brilliant for six weeks,” Kerr told reporters. “You know, he’s shooting the lights out… the confidence; he’s maybe been our most consistent performer. His on-ball defense; he’s top of the league against pick-and-roll. And he’s such a great teammate. He’s there for you every night, the way he works. He’s so poised.”

That is significant praise for a 23-year-old who has spent most of his career fighting for consistent minutes. Moody struggled in December, averaging just 8.8 points per game over 13 games. But since the calendar turned, he has been one of Golden State’s most reliable players.

Over his last five games, Moody is averaging 18.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game while shooting 50.8 percent from the field and 39.0 percent from three-point range. He is averaging 32.0 minutes per game during that stretch.

Kerr pointed to Moody’s physical development as a key factor. “I think he’s quicker and stronger,” Kerr said. “You saw the baseline move where he dunked it, you know, ripped through. I think it’s a natural progression for a young guy after three, four years to grow into your body and get a little stronger, a little quicker. So I see him getting past people more now than in the past.”

Moody’s defense has also been critical. Kerr noted that Moody is one of the league’s best defenders against pick-and-roll situations. That skill matters when the Warriors are missing Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, Draymond Green, and Kristaps Porzingis.

What Moody Said About His Approach

Moody credits simplifying his game for his recent success.

“Simplifying the game,” Moody told reporters. “I know what I’m good at… the player that I am next season might not be the player that I am right now. But I’ve said it before — being where your feet are, making the best out of your situation.”

Moody had a conversation with Kerr before Sunday’s game. He asked if his role would change with Curry out. Kerr told him no. The Warriors need Moody to keep doing what he has been doing. That consistency is what Kerr values most.

“I had a conversation with Coach yesterday, and I was asking, ‘With Steph being gone, do you need me to do anything else? How does my role change at all?’” Moody said. “And he was saying, that’s one of his favorite things about me, just the composure and being solid.”

That maturity stands out. Moody is not trying to do too much. He is not forcing shots or trying to replace Curry’s production. He is staying within his role and executing it at a high level. That approach is why the Warriors trust him.

What This Means for the Warriors

The Warriors needed this win.

Golden State is 30-27 and sits in eighth place in the Western Conference. They are dealing with injuries to Curry, Butler, Green, and Porzingis. Moody has stepped up during this stretch and given the Warriors reliable production on both ends of the floor.

The Warriors were not supposed to beat the Nikola Jokic-led Nuggets on Sunday without their top four players. But Moody led the way. Al Horford provided veteran leadership. The supporting cast stepped up.

Moody’s ability to defend at a high level and score efficiently makes him a valuable piece for Golden State moving forward. He is not a star. But he is a player the Warriors can rely on every night. That matters in a season where consistency has been hard to find.

Final Word for the Warriors

Steve Kerr called Moses Moody the Warriors’ most consistent player.

That is significant praise given the circumstances. Moody has averaged 18.2 points per game over his last five games while shooting 50.8 percent from the field. His defense has been elite. And his maturity has allowed him to stay within his role without trying to do too much.

The Warriors are 30-27 and fighting to stay in the playoff picture. They need players like Moody to step up when their stars are unavailable. Moody has done that. And Kerr made sure everyone knows it.

Moody is not trying to replace Curry or Butler. He is trying to be the best version of himself. That approach is working.

Keith Watkins Keith Watkins is a sports journalist covering the NBA for Heavy.com, with a focus on the Golden State Warriors, Boston Celtics, and Los Angeles Lakers. He previously wrote for FanSided, NBA Analysis Network, and Last Word On Sports. Keith is based in Bangkok, Thailand. More about Keith Watkins