The Warriors' defense fell flat Friday as Golden State (1-1) fell to the Denver Nuggets (1-1) at Chase Center.
Although it is only the second game of the 2022-23 NBA season, Draymond Green shouldered the blame for the Warriors' lack of defensive intensity in the first half of the 128-123 loss.
"I think we didn't start off with a strong defensive presence," Green told reporters postgame. "So that's on me -- whether I was out there or not, we were awful defensively."
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In the first half, the Nuggets scored 70 points on 59.5 percent shooting from the field and shot 57.1 percent from 3-point land. Denver also made 12 of 14 free-throw attempts in the first half.
"We have to set a tone on that side of the floor and like I said, that starts with me," Green continued. "So I can be better on that end. Obviously, we can all be better on that end and it'll all come together."
The Warriors' defensive anchor also noted that Golden State was a tad too aggressive on defense, causing Golden State to adjust with a more conservative defensive approach to avoid more fouls.
"I think when you get the early fouls, it definitely takes away some aggressiveness," Green said. "A couple chances you may take that can change the flow of a game, can't necessarily take those."
Golden State Warriors
Green and Kevon Looney both had three fouls after 24 minutes while JaMychal Green and James Wiseman had two fouls apiece.
That said, the Warriors' defensive effort in the second half was slightly better, holding the Nuggets to 58 points on 47.7 percent shooting from the field and 35 percent from beyond the 3-point line.
But the 32-year-old feels that as the defensive leader, the onus is on him to dictate the Warriors' defensive effort for that night.
"I have to be better with that, not picking up early fouls so I can have the aggressiveness and set the tone on that end and everyone can follow," Green added. "So we'll be better but you know, second game of the season so we're still figuring it out."
Overall, the veteran forward finished with 13 points, nine assists, three rebounds, two blocks and two steals in 26 minutes, though he did foul out. Regardless, Green's effort still shows he is committed to the Warriors.
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Known as a defensively sound group during coach Steve Kerr's tenure, there is little doubt that the Warriors will get their defense in shape.
As Green said, it is only the second game and with everything that has transpired over the last few weeks, some struggles are to be expected.