Warriors win series, 4-0
As many expected, Stephen Curry and the Dubs made quick work of Anthony Davis and the New Orleans Pelicans. However, it was not an easy task, as the Pelicans fought valiantly in every single contest. They took on the intensity set by Davis, who had a sort of “coming out party” in front of a national audience.
Davis became the 4th player in NBA history to average at least 30 points & 10 rebounds in his first four playoff games. At times, he looked unstoppable and he even received great contributions from Tyreke Evans (battled through a knee injury), Eric Gordon and Quincy Pondexter all series long…but it was just not enough.
Steph Curry, Draymond Green, Andrew Bogut, Klay Thompson and Harrison Barnes continue to make a strong statement as the top starting five in the league. Curry (40 points in Game 3; 39 points in Game 4), in particular, was brilliant with his late-game heroics in Game 3 and Green absolutely stuffed the stat sheet all series long.
A meeting with either the Memphis Grizzlies or Portland Trail Blazers looms for the Dubs, who are riding high at the right time.
Turning Point:
It’s very tough to close out playoff games. The young New Orleans Pelicans learned that lesson the hard way as they saw their 20-point fourth quarter lead evaporate right before their eyes. With the series shifted to ‘Nawlins, the Pels needed to find to way to win Game 3.
Though it was a devastating loss, Davis and co. will draw on that experience as inspiration to improve.
What’s Next:
The Dubs:
-The Warriors will begin the Semifinals hosting either the Grizzlies (up 3-0 over Portland) or Blazers, as we mentioned. With Memphis the more likely matchup, they have about a week to shore up the defensive deficiencies (poor rotations, inconsistent rim protection) that plagued them in the majority of the first round.
Game planning effectively against Zach Randolph & Marc Gasol will make the difference next series.
The Pels:
-New Orleans will look to the draft and free agency for more depth on the interior. With Jrue Holiday’s health a constant concern and Omer Asik an unrestricted free agent, they may look to improve both spots in the summer.
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