Golden State Warriors return to .500 amid compact Western Conference

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 25: Jordan Poole #3 and Klay Thompson #11 of the Golden State Warriors celebrates after Thompson made a three-point shot against the Utah Jazz during the fourth quarter at Chase Center on November 25, 2022 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 25: Jordan Poole #3 and Klay Thompson #11 of the Golden State Warriors celebrates after Thompson made a three-point shot against the Utah Jazz during the fourth quarter at Chase Center on November 25, 2022 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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The Golden State Warriors have returned to a .500 record for the first time in 14 games, moving to a 10-10 record thanks to a 129-118 win over the Utah Jazz on Friday night.

The win was set up by a dominant early period where the Warriors opened up a double-digit lead, and although the Jazz provided a close battle throughout, Golden State’s offensive rhythm proved more than enough.

Now 7-3 in their last ten games, the Golden State Warriors sit just three games back from the first-placed Phoenix Suns in the Western Conference.

The Warriors’ offense was at it it’s free-flowing best, with all five starters scoring in double-digits — coming after Wednesday’s win over the Los Angeles Clippers where they all scored at least nine. As usual, Stephen Curry led the way with 33 points, five rebounds and four assists, though he was ably supported by 20 points apiece from Andrew Wiggins and Klay Thompson.

Golden State shot 51.5% from the field and 44.4% from three-point range, with the free-throw attempt differential (17-6) and turnover differential (19-13) the only aspects holding back the Warriors from an even bigger victory.

Fans would have been excited by some promising signs from Jordan Poole, having averaged less than nine points in his last four games off the bench. The 23-year-old had 19 points and six assists, proving a nice foil to Curry, Wiggins and Thompson as the quartet combined for 92 points.

The Warriors’ defense continues to have its issues, and that remained against Utah’s fourth-ranked offense. The five-out system proved effective as usual, with big men Lauri Markkanen and Kelly Olynyk recording 24 and 21 points respectively. Rejuvenated guard Jordan Clarkson also had a 21-point, ten-assist double-double.

The West continues to deliver a competitive standing scarcely seen — there’s just three games between the first-placed Suns and 11th placed Warriors, while Golden State are just 1.5 wins back from four teams placed between third and sixth.

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An intriguing matchup with the Minnesota Timberwolves awaits on Sunday, with their new look two-big lineup yet to pay dividends. Meanwhile, Golden State will be looking to turnaround their road fortunes which sees them at 1-9 so far this season.