Golden State Warriors(39-9) @ New York Knicks (10-40)
Madison Square Garden - New York, NY
4:30 p.m. PST
Radio: KNBR 680 AM | TV: CSN Bay Area
Buddy Blog: Posting and Toasting
Last night's loss against the Atlanta Hawks was an indication that Golden State is not invulnerable. After winning 14 straight games against Eastern Conference squads, the Warriors have dropped two consecutive games against the East. While the Warriors have played over .800 ball throughout the season thus far, it is definitely crucial to take care of business against bottom-feeders and play without complacency as other teams make late-season playoff and seeding pushes.
The New York Knicks came into the season with the goal of making the playoffs at the back of their head. However, when reality finally settled in, Phil Jackson and the Knicks front office wasted no time in making the bold decision to trade away Iman Shumpert and J.R. Smith which would formally end any playoff pursuit. With an unhealthy Carmelo Anthony and a lottery-bound roster, the tables have been turned for Golden State to run away with this game early and sweep the season series (Golden State split the series with New York last season with each team winning on the road).
Stephen Curry went off for his career-high 54 points at The Garden two years ago and if he were to play (Steve Kerr may opt to rest him, Andrew Bogut, and/or Andre Iguodala) look for him to strike early. Throw in contributions from the rest of the squad, the Golden State bench mob may get extended minutes.
Prediction: Golden State is playing for the best record while New York is playing for ping-pong balls.
Golden State 104 New York 88
Every time Steve Kerr remembers he's the coach of the Warriors and NOT the Knicks... pic.twitter.com/ZUaaqGZPsl
— SportsNation (@SportsNation) February 4, 2015