Kerr Dismisses Fatigue Concerns Following Seven-Game Thriller

MINNEAPOLIS — What exhaustion for the Golden State Warriors following their seven-game series against the Houston Rockets?

"I'm actually not very watchful for that," stated the head coach. Steve Kerr He stated on Tuesday prior to the commencement of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center. "My expectation is for us to step onto the court brimming with high energy, and honestly, we're all incredibly thrilled to be here. We've managed to advance past the Houston series and now we have an exciting fresh chance to begin anew."

Kerr stated he isn't worried about tiredness after Golden State's victory over Houston. The Rockets are a young team with significant depth that nearly knocked the Warriors out of contention. Each member of Golden State’s starting five logged over 37 minutes on the court on Sunday. Stephen Curry , Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green logged more than 40 minutes of play — prior to heading to Minneapolis on Monday.

If I notice it, then yes, I'll take action," Kerr stated regarding fatigue. "However, I believe we'll be prepared to compete.

The second game of the seven-game series is scheduled for Thursday, with following matches taking place every alternate day — except for possibly Game 6, which would be held four days after Game 5.

“I don’t have that sense at all that we’re going into this game scared of fatigue and willing to sort of give our guys a break and rest and wait until next game,” Kerr said.

In a lopsided Game 5 defeat against Houston, The Warriors opted to take their starting players out during the third quarter.

I believe when you lead 3-1 away from home and you feel your team is getting fatigued, that changes things slightly," Kerr stated. "However, if we fall behind 45 points by midway through the third quarter, I’ll be taking out my players.

Buddy the defender: Kerr once more commended Warriors guard Buddy Hield for his defensive performance, despite the nine-year veteran joining Golden State without much recognition as a defender.

“He can stay in front of people,” Kerr said, noting Hield’s defense against Houston’s Fred VanVleet and Jalen Green. Kerr said Hield will spend time guarding Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards throughout the series.

“He’s not afraid and he’s strong,” Kerr said. “He’s doing a really good job of just following the game plan, staying in front and making things as tough as possible.”