Warriors' Kerr Cites Curry's Desire to Compete in Playoffs

Golden State coach says team will keep fighting for postseason berth despite long odds.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 11:07pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented basketball game, with the players' forms broken down into overlapping planes of color and shape, capturing the intensity and uncertainty of the Warriors' playoff chase.The Warriors' playoff push is a fragmented, high-stakes battle, with Curry's competitive spirit driving the team forward.New Orleans Today

Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has made it clear that the team will continue to compete for a playoff spot, citing star player Stephen Curry's desire to play in the postseason despite the team's long odds. Kerr acknowledged Curry is nearing the end of his career and the Warriors want to maximize his remaining time.

Why it matters

The Warriors' push for the playoffs is significant because it goes against the common strategy of 'tanking' to secure a higher draft pick. Kerr's comments suggest the team values Curry's competitive spirit and wants to give him one more chance at a championship run, even if their chances of advancing deep into the playoffs are slim.

The details

The Warriors currently sit outside the playoff picture, but are only a few games behind the New Orleans Pelicans for the 11th seed. While many fans have called for the team to rest Curry and focus on the future, Kerr says that's not how they operate. He believes Curry, who just turned 38, still has the drive to compete in the playoffs, and the team will do what it takes to get there, even if it means playing their aging star.

  • The Warriors have 6 games left in the regular season.
  • The Pelicans, who hold the 11th seed, have only won 25 games so far this season.

The players

Steve Kerr

Head coach of the Golden State Warriors, known for his successful tenure leading the team to multiple championships.

Stephen Curry

38-year-old superstar point guard for the Golden State Warriors, considered one of the greatest shooters in NBA history and a key part of the team's dynasty.

New Orleans Pelicans

An NBA team that currently holds the 11th seed in the Western Conference playoff race, making them a competitor for the final playoff spots.

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What they’re saying

“I don't know. That's not — not what we do. Just compete. That's the job. And Steph's in the final stages of his career. If he has a chance to be in the playoffs, he's gonna want to compete, and our group's gonna wanna too.”

— Steve Kerr, Head Coach, Golden State Warriors

What’s next

The Warriors will need to win a majority of their remaining 6 games and hope the Pelicans falter in order to secure a playoff berth. The team's performance in close games will be crucial, as they have excelled in tight contests this season.

The takeaway

Despite long odds, the Warriors are prioritizing Curry's desire to compete in the playoffs over tanking for a higher draft pick. This decision reflects the team's championship pedigree and commitment to maximizing the final years of their superstar's career.