Team Overviews
The Warriors. Tonight's game could be a physical one as Houston looks to tie the series with a win of their own. Curry could be out for Game 2 as he nurses his injured ankle injury. (Livingston will start in Curry's place)
Warriors vs. Rockets: Stephen Curry hoping injured ankle "responds well" before Game 2: After Steph Curry twea... https://t.co/p7i3rNhHca
— Golden State of Mind (@unstoppablebaby) April 17, 2016
Golden State should be prepared with whatever is decided. Their arsenal is deep enough to compete with Houston. A strong defensive presence and unselfish ball movement is key for us to do damage against this hungry Rockets team.
The Rockets are searching for answers after Saturday's loss to Golden State. I personally think these guys can sneak in a win in this series to force a Game 5. It really depends on if they can make adjustments and simply compete. James Harden was held to 17 points (7 of 19 shooting), and 6 turnovers in the series opener. Dwight Howard did okay with 14 points and 11 rebounds. The dominance he used to display back in Orlando is something I'm just not seeing anymore.
Key to the game: Widen the gap.
Run the points up on the scoreboard and don't look back. There's a huge performance gap between both teams and we need to take advantage of this opportunity. Smother Houston on the defensive end and out score 'em on the floor. The question is, can Houston take advantage with Curry possibly out? Can the Warriors outplay the Rockets without their MVP?
Highlights/Predictions:
- Stephen Curry's injury? He's questionable for tonight's game. Whether Curry gets limited minutes or we sit him completely, this gives key players the chance to step it up tonight. I'm up for resting Steph, but if he can do limited minutes it'll be interesting to see how this plays out.
- Klay is the X-factor. Thompson had 16 points and 5 rebounds on Saturday's win against the Rockets in Game 1. Depending on Curry's availability there's plenty of room for him to step it up and take charge. We've seen games where Klay goes on a shooting frenzy. This might be one of those nights!
- Draymond Green's defensive upside is hurting the Rockets. Houston was 6 for 22 shooting when Green was defending them. Drayman had 12 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists Saturday night but his defensive presence prevented the Rockets to get anything going. My prediction: You know it! A triple double to close out the game.
- Squad transitions. All eyes seem to be on Curry's ankle right now. How much play time will he get? Limited (if any) play time? Sit this one out? Whatever the case is, so long as we can build up a lead and not lose it, we should be fine. Turnovers are something we don't need tonight. Big plays seals the deal!
Win Prediction: Keep the momentum on our side, Warriors fans. 108-98 is your final score. Let's go Dubs!
ICYMI: (Posts from GSoM)
Golden State Warriors start playoffs with bang, relish physical play against Houston Rockets
2016 NBA Playoffs: Springtime is the best time
Explain One Play: Warriors attack and guard James Harden
Stephen Curry hoping injured ankle "responds well" before Game 2
Warriors vs. Rockets final score: Golden State takes 1-0 series lead with a 104-78 win
Crossing Enemy Lines: Talking Warriors vs. Rockets with the Dream Shake