Golden State Warriors: Comprehensive Game Preview with Pelicans Reporter Terry Kimble

How do the Pelicans go about guarding Stephen Curry?

Incredibly, Curry has yet to face the Pelicans this season having been absent for the teams’ three previous matchups. The two-time MVP has shot just 31.3% from deep over his last six games, but the Pelicans (and the rest of the league) know the danger he presents at any given time.

New Orleans will be without one of the more pesky and effective perimeter defenders in Jose Alvarado, but they do have the length and incredible defensive instincts of Herb Jones at their disposal. Kimble believes it will take a true team effort to combat the reigning Finals MVP though.

"“As the old saying goes, “It takes a village”. No one person can stop the greatness that is Steph Curry. I think Herb will get the initial look and then Josh Richardson and Dyson Daniels will be called upon thereafter.” “The truth is the Pelicans bigs will also need to be aware of where Curry is on the floor and how they decide to defend certain pick-and-roll coverages. I see Larry Nance Jr playing a significant amount of time at the 5, especially later on in the ballgame. He’s a guy (Curry) who will definitely test that number one defense in opponent three-point shooting, so curious to see what defensive scheme they use.”"

While Curry and Ingram will be key in determining the final result, from a more holistic sense, Kimble sees the turnover battle as being a major indicator for both sides.

"“The Warriors are second to last in the league in committing turnovers and the Pelicans are five games over .500 when they commit fewer turnovers than their opponents. Taking care of the basketball will be key for both teams in this one.”"

After a tough loss against the Timberwolves, the Warriors simply can’t afford to drop this one. They’ll enter the contest as comfortable favorites, but the Pelicans’ recent form shows they possess the personnel on both sides of the floor to cause somewhat of an upset.