Los Angeles Clippers: 3 takeaways from Game 3 loss vs. Warriors

3. First quarter blowout

After their shocking loss in Game 2, it was clear from the jump of Game 3 that Golden State was looking to make a statement within the game’s first 12 minutes. The Warriors scored 41 in the frame compared to just 24 for LA, putting the game out of reach before most fans had even gotten comfortable in their seats.

The Dubs dominated a number of important categories in that first quarter. They shot 69.6 percent from the field on 23 attempts compared to only 33.3 percent for the Clippers on 21 shots. Golden State grabbed 13 rebounds to LA’s three, while the duo of Curry and Durant combined to score one more point than the entire Clipper team combined.

LA was supposed to use the momentum acquired in their inspiring comeback victory to at least make this a down-to-the-wire battle. Instead, the team was totally blitzed by the Warriors at both ends of the floor, digging themselves into an early hole to deep to climb out of.

The Clippers punched the Dubs. Golden State came and punched right back. Now, it’s time for LA to retaliate in Game 4, which for starters, means keeping within striking distance early to keep them competitive.