2013 NBA Playoffs: Golden State Warriors vs. Denver Nuggets Preview

Guard – Stephen Curry vs Ty Lawson

Lawson has missed extended action over the past few weeks with a right foot problem. Since returning on April 12 (three games), though, he hasn’t shown a ton of rust, averaging 17 points and 6.7 assists in nearly 30 minutes per game.

April 17, 2013; Portland, OR, USA; Golden State Warriors point guard Stephen Curry (30) shoots over Portland Trail Blazers shooting guard Will Barton (5) in the second half at the Rose Garden. Mandatory Credit: Jaime Valdez-USA TODAY Sports

Curry, meanwhile, has avoided any major ankle issues this year, and in turn, he broke the all-time single season 3-point record that was originally held by Ray Allen.

Over his final 14 games of the season, he averaged 27.6 points and 8.1 assists in 39.7 minutes per game. In four games against the Nuggets this season he’s averaging 18.5 points.

Ultimately, this is the matchup to keep a close eye on. Curry’s effectiveness will basically determine how far the Warriors can go as a team, and the same goes for Lawson, who musters points by penetrating and creating for his teammates.

With that said, however, both will be pressured. Both will be double-teamed. And both will probably be limited to a lesser role than they did in the regular season due to the increased focus. It’s only natural.

Since Lawson is battling an injury that may or may not effect him, I’ll give Curry the slight edge.

Advantage Golden State