3 Keys behind Golden State Warriors win over the New Orleans Pelicans
The Golden State Warriors looked to continue their hot streak as they took on the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night. It was to another matchup with a Western Conference team as the Warriors battle in the standings.
After another slow start for the third consecutive game, the Golden State Warriors rallied again to beat the New Orleans Pelicans 108-99.
A 5-0 homestand is precisely what the doctor ordered as the anticipation of Stephen Curry’s return looms. Here’s how the Warriors got it done.
Points in the Paint
A sluggish start to the first quarter saw the Warriors struggling to make an outside shot. They combated this by getting inside and scoring in the paint. Although they rank just 28th in the NBA in this category, they managed to outscore the Pelicans 52-36 on Friday night. Jamychal Green gave great minutes off the bench, including some early dunks that swung momentum after the Pelicans took a 14-point lead after the first period.
Bench Unit
Bench production has been a roller coaster for the Warriors this season. Many moving pieces in and out of the rotation and injuries have caused this group to be inconsistent. It seems they have found an identity during this homestand. Jonathan Kuminga looks to be getting better every game and continued that tonight with his 19 points and intense defense against Pelicans star Brandon Ingram.
https://twitter.com/warriors/status/1631879002838413313
With the eventual return of Curry and Andrew Wiggins, the Warriors could be looking at a bench unit consisting of Jordan Poole, Kuminga, Donte DiVincenzo, Gary Payton II, JaMychal Green, and others. It should be an excellent group for Steve Kerr to utilize in the quest for back-to-back championships.
Finishing Strong
When the Warrior offense stalled in the fourth-quarter, they returned to the reliable three-point line. Anthony Lamb, Klay Thompson and DiVincenzo hit consecutive threes for a 9-1 run that Golden State would never look back from. Defensive intensity throughout the game, especially down the stretch, was impressive as Ingram and CJ McCollum had to work for every bucket they got.
Next. Golden State Warriors: Stephen Curry breaks down where he gets part of his motivation. dark
Up next for the Warriors is the Lakers in Los Angeles on Sunday. All reports suggest that Curry will return for that game barring any setbacks. At 34-30 and fifth in the West, this team seems to be hitting its stride at the right time as they prepare to welcome back the two-time MVP.