Golden State Warriors: 5 Reasons For Confidence In Game 3
The Golden State Warriors once again found themselves in a dogfight with the No. 8 New Orleans Pelicans last night. In front of a crowd so loud it might not be legal, the Dubs rode a Klay Thompson scoring explosion (14 of his 26 points in the fourth quarter) to a 97-87 victory in Game 2, taking a 2-0 lead in their first round series.
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We learned a lot about these two teams in Game 1, and Game 2 was no different. But other than those stellar first three quarters in the series opener, the Warriors have been surprisingly challenged by the Anthony Davis-led bottom seed in the Western Conference.
Both games have been close late in the fourth quarter, the Brow has dominated both games and the Pelicans have had unexpected contributions from role players in both games. The Dubs may have a 2-0 lead, but this first round matchup is not one to be taken lightly as we head to Smoothie King Arena for Game 3, especially when these games have been so close in the toughest place for NBA visitors to play.
That being said, even though the Pelicans have done an excellent job competing, there’s also reason for optimism heading into this tough road game. New Orleans has their backs against the wall and needs to protect its home court. The last time the Pelicans were desperate and needed a win at home, they beat the San Antonio Spurs.
This time, however, they’re facing the best road team in the NBA in a playoff environment. NOLA’s fans are going to turn out in droves to try and replicate the home-court advantage Golden State enjoyed in the first two games, but here are five reasons the Warriors should be able to manage on the road for Games 3 and 4.
Next: No. 5