Warriors downplaying ‘rowdy’ Celtics fans before emotional matchup

Warriors downplaying ‘rowdy’ Celtics fans before emotional matchup originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

BOSTON – Sarcasm is one of Warriors coach Steve Kerr’s greatest strengths, and he certainly took a sarcastic approach to being asked about what kind of reception he expects Boston Celtics fans to greet him with Wednesday night at TD Garden.

Open arms? A bouquet of roses? You sure about that, Steve?

That’s the route Kerr went with Tuesday on KNBR’s “Tolbert & Copes,” and he’s sure to take the high road when asked again about it during his pregame press conference. Kerr led three Celtics – Jayson Tatum, Jrue Holiday and Derrick Brown – to a gold medal at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, but the same fans who chanted “F–k you, Draymond!” in the 2022 NBA Finals are expected to give Kerr the business during pregame introductions and for all four quarters in the first game this season between the Warriors and Celtics. Why?

Because despite shooting a lowly 38.1 percent and missing all four of his 3-point attempts, along with playing the same position as superstars LeBron James and Kevin Durant, Celtics fans are upset Tatum had a limited role on Team USA. Tatum was a DNP-CD (Did Not Play; Coach’s Decision) in two of Team USA’s six games. He averaged 17.7 minutes per game, and played just 11 minutes in the gold medal game.

There’s no denying the Warriors are well aware of what Kerr and the entire team are about to face. They’re also doing their best to keep the focus on the game instead of any outside noise.

When Tatum was brought up Wednesday morning at shootaround, Green didn’t mention Kerr or his own history with Celtics fans. However, his answer didn’t fully ignore the situation.

“He’s motivated,” Green said. “He’s playing great basketball. He’s motivated living up to who he’s supposed to be.”

Two questions earlier, Green gave the Celtics all the credit they’ve earned as reigning champions after being asked if there’s anything “juicy” about playing in Boston for the first time this season.

“Yeah, they’re the defending champions,” he said. “And…

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Author : NBC Sports BayArea

Publish date : 2024-11-06 23:21:00

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