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

Key Matchup – Stephen Curry vs Ty Lawson

April 15, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors fans celebrate after a three point basket by point guard Stephen Curry (30) against the San Antonio Spurs during the fourth quarter at Oracle Arena. The Golden State Warriors defeated the San Antonio Spurs 116-106. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

As I mentioned, the point guard matchup is one to watch closely. Curry is the Warriors’ star, and they will only go as far as he goes. Lawson, meanwhile, is the closest thing to a star that the Nuggets have on their roster.

It’s very simple: If Curry is able to get his normal sum of attempts and make them at his normal rate, the Warriors will contend. On the other side of the coin, if Lawson is able to get into the paint with ease and dish off passes to his teammates, the Nuggets will be very competitive.