Mon Oct 06 02:00:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

The Golden State Warriors recognize their lack of size and rim protection is a weakness. To compensate, they’re focusing on improving their point-of-attack defense, emphasizing aggressive on-ball defense from guards and wings like Moses Moody, Gary Payton II, Brandin Podziemski, Jonathan Kuminga, and Will Richard. Players like Moody and Payton are embracing this challenge, with Moody finding it enjoyable and Payton acknowledging it’s crucial to his role. Podziemski needs to control his fouls and maintain composure. While the Warriors have capable defenders on the back line, their overall defensive success hinges on preventing penetration at the perimeter.

**News Article:**

**Warriors Double Down on Perimeter Defense to Compensate for Lack of Size**

SAN FRANCISCO – The Golden State Warriors are addressing a key weakness this season: their lack of size and rim protection. Instead of seeking a traditional center, the team is prioritizing aggressive point-of-attack defense, tasking their guards and wings with stopping penetration before it starts.

Coach Steve Kerr is challenging players like Moses Moody, Gary Payton II, Brandin Podziemski, Jonathan Kuminga, and rookie Will Richard to become defensive stoppers. Moody, in particular, has embraced the challenge, citing the enjoyment he derives from pressuring ball handlers.

“It really let me know how fun it is,” he said Friday, referring to last season’s trial. “I really enjoyed picking up high, bothering the ball, reaching when I can.”

Payton, a veteran known for his defensive prowess, acknowledges the importance of this role, especially as his athleticism naturally diminishes. Podziemski, while showing promise, needs to manage his fouls and maintain composure on the court.

The Warriors’ emphasis on perimeter defense comes after a season where they struggled to contain opposing guards and were often outmatched in the paint. Their final game, a playoff loss to the Timberwolves, saw them surrender a staggering 72 points in the paint.

While the Warriors have solid back-line defenders in Draymond Green and others, their overall defensive effectiveness will ultimately depend on the success of their point-of-attack defenders in limiting penetration. Kerr has a roster of energetic, capable players to work with, and he will likely utilize them all in the pursuit of a more formidable defense.

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