D’Angelo Russell breaks free, but Warriors fall to Spurs

SAN FRANCISCO — Steve Kerr said before the game that, with most of the stars out for the count, the offense and defense this season would be simplified. The adjusted scheme kept the Warriors competitive against the San Antonio Spurs, falling 127-110 on Friday night at Chase Center.

With Stephen Curry out for the next three months after surgery on a broken bone in his left hand, D’Angelo Russell would have the ball in his hands far more. Though not ideal circumstances for the team, it provided space for Russel to blossom — he scored 14 points in the first quarter with two 3-pointers to help keep the Warriors (1-4) within one by the end of the quarter.

His scoring off the dribble continued throughout the game as he finished with 30 points on 9-of-24 shooting with three 3-pointers.

Jordan Poole also benefited from the simplified offense. After going scoreless in the first quarter, Poole rattled off eight points with two 3-pointers in the second quarter. He finished with 20 points with four 3-pointers.

Draymond Green, the lone star left standing, was taking more open shots. At the half he had six points with a 3-pointer. He finished the game with six points, eight rebounds and seven assists.

Alec Burks also had a great night in his second game with the team. Through three quarters, Burks had 12 points with two 3-pointers on the way to a 14-point game.