Dubs can win the rebounding battle
One of the biggest concerns for Golden State entering this matchup was the rebounding battle. Memphis had just proven they can sway the tides of a series by winning the glass — but the Dubs did not concede in Game 1.
In fact, it was the Warriors’ activity on the offensive boards that helped them secure a win. Constant second-chance opportunities as well as simply fighting for loose balls helped burn crucial seconds off the clock on the final two possessions of the game.
The Warriors won the rebounding battle 51-47. They tied Memphis in offensive rebounding at 16.
It was a team effort on the glass. Jordan Poole and Otto Porter each grabbed 8 boards, leading the Warriors. Jonathan Kuminga, Kevon Looney and Gary Patton all chipped in with 6 rebounds a piece.
Had it not been for this second effort on the glass, Memphis could have easily stormed in for a lead. If the Warriors want to keep winning games, they need to keep winning this battle.