- When: Monday, November 7th at 7:30 p.m. Pacific time
- Where: Oracle Arena - Oakland, CA
- Coverage: Television - CSN Bay Area | Radio - 95.7 The Game
The 4-2 Golden State Warriors face the 0-6 New Orleans Pelicans in the second of their four matchups this year. The Warriors won the last game in New Orleans 122-114 after losing the home opener in a blowout to the San Antonio Spurs. This time, they are coming off a 97-117 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers in LA, but have had two days of rest to recover physically and mentally.
The LA game was marked by poor shooting from beyond the arc and turnovers, as the Warriors made just 5 of their 32 3-point attempts and coughed up the ball 20 times. Turnovers will certainly be a point of emphasis for coach Steve Kerr, and although “start making open shots” isn’t an adjustment a coach can make, do expect the Warriors to look to drive more and find other ways to score if they start the night slow again.
The Pelicans were injury-plagued last year and unfortunately this year has not started out any better for them. Lance Stephenson is out with a groin injury that will require surgery and the Pelicans will reportedly release him to make room to sign Archie Goodwin. In addition, Jrue Holiday, Tyreke Evans and Quincy Pondexter will be out for this game, so expect the Warriors to take advantage of this depleted squad for a morale-boosting win.
For the Warriors, Damian Jones is out and Patrick McCaw, who was injured the last game against the Pelicans, will be a game-time decision.
Last time these teams played, Anthony Davis had 45 points on 54.8 percent shooting from the field, 17 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocks and 2 steals. On the season, he has averaged 30 points on 47.2 percent shooting with 11.8 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 2.5 steals and 3.2 blocks per game, respectively. He is clearly the focal point of their offense, and with the injury to their fourth-highest scorer, Stephenson, the Pelicans have even fewer options on that end of the floor. So expect constant attention and a steady stream of double teams on Davis.