Team Overviews
The Warriors. League MVP Stephen Curry drops 51 points against the Washington Wizards Wednesday night, extending their win streak to 8. The following day, Golden State took a trip to the White House as they are congratulated by the POTUS himself, Barack Obama. On the eve of Super Bowl 50, Steph is guaranteeing a victory!
Festus Ezeli (knee) and James Michael McAdoo (toe) are out for the Warriors' game vs. Oklahoma City, according to the latest game notes.
— Rusty Simmons (@Rusty_SFChron) February 5, 2016
The Thunder. These guys are on a roll right now winning 12 of their last 13 games with a five-game win streak. OKC's been averaging 120.2 points the past 5 games and hope to continue that streak in Oakland. Russell Westbrook posted his third triple double Wednesday night. (24 points, 19 rebounds and 14 assists) Kevin Durant creeped up from behind with a game winning 3 over the Magic.
Key to the game: Hit the floor running. (and splashing!)
Once that basketball is tipped in the air, the Warriors need to hit the floor running and gunning. If we can replicate the same formula that gave both San Antonio and Cleveland losses on our home court, I wouldn't be surprised if we walk out with a win. On the other hand, OKC's dynamic duo Westbrook and Durant will definitely be a tough package to defend. Make them force bad shots, guard that perimeter and play smart basketball is key to a W.
Highlight Predictions:
- Curry vs Westbrook: We've heard the debate all season long amongst fans and today is the day both players show up and prove themselves. I'm predicting each guard will have a highlight reel moment but Curry has the skills to come out on top. It's all about who leads their team to victory.
- Draymond's heart vs height: President Obama reminded us of that quote during his speech on Thursday. At the end of the day, Draymond is giving us his absolute best in more ways than one. We've been treated to triple double performances. If he's not scoring, he's rebounding or playing incredible D. Sometimes the biggest match ups bring the best out in him.
- Big night for Senator Barnes? We're giving him the time he needs to adjust after his ankle injury and he had a big time buzzer beater in last Saturday's win over the 76ers. Something tells me the Black Falcon will take flight in a major way! It's clear skies from here on out!
- Keep scoring Klay! Mr. Thompson has been shooting lights out 33.8 points and 60.2% shooting these last four games. His services will be needed tremendously tonight!
- Golden State ball rotation: This is going to be a fun one at the Roaracle. Two fast-paced teams going head to head. Expect the rotation to be fast and furious on Golden State's end. Keep an eye on that bench rotation Coach Kerr.
- Another big challenge for the Warriors: After months of analysis and comparisons, we get to see both teams go head to head with each of their starters at full strength. It will be interesting to see how this plays out. I have faith in my Dubs, and with a packed house of 18,000+ strong in the building thats sure to be a distraction for OKC. Fans on both sides are in for a treat!
Win Prediction:
I got dibs we come out with a win similar to the recent Cleveland and San Antonio game. We can blow it out by 15+ points or win by a close one in overtime. Golden State finishes the night with a win!
ICYMI: (Posts from GSoM and beyond)
Even The White House tweeted about our Golden State Warriors!
"Give it up for the @NBA Champion Golden State @Warriors!" â@POTUS: https://t.co/S3Wjsk6KnA #DubNation pic.twitter.com/aHru5w5wzi
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) February 4, 2016
The Warriors visit the White House, part 2
The Warriors visit the White House, part one: a gallery
Steph and Klay in the 3pt contest again
Barack Obama pulls off the perfect 95-96 Bulls joke during Warriors' visit to White House