Warriors Stumble in Crucial Battle Against Pelicans
The Warriors, playing their second game in as many days, returned home to face the Pelicans. Despite Stephen Curry’s fourth-quarter explosion of 16 points and a total of 33 points for the game, the Warriors ultimately fell short, losing 109-114 to the Pelicans, who rained down 20 three-pointers.
Warriors’ Early Dominance Fades
The Warriors started the game strongly, holding a double-digit lead at one point and ending the first quarter with a 9-point advantage. However, the Pelicans erupted for 45 points in the second quarter, sinking 10 three-pointers as a team. CJ McCollum led the charge with 5 three-pointers, overwhelming the Warriors.
Pelicans’ Three-Point Barrage
In the third quarter, the Warriors made a comeback attempt, only to be thwarted by the Pelicans’ barrage of three-pointers. Despite Curry’s 16-point outburst in the fourth quarter reigniting hope for a win, his last two shots fell short, sealing the Warriors’ fate.
Curry’s Heroics Not Enough
Curry finished the game with 33 points, including 7 three-pointers, while Klay Thompson struggled with his shooting, making only 6 of 19 attempts for 19 points. Draymond Green contributed 12 rebounds and 11 assists but failed to score any points.
Pelicans’ Second Quarter Surge
The Pelicans’ victory was fueled by their explosive second-quarter performance and their team’s incredible accuracy from beyond the arc, shooting a remarkable 52.8% from three-point range. McCollum led the way with 8 three-pointers and 28 points, while Zion Williamson scored 26 points and Trey Murphy III added 24.
Playoff Implications
Both teams were vying for victory with playoff implications at stake. While the Warriors sought to gain an advantage in the play-in tournament, the Pelicans aimed to secure the sixth seed in the Western Conference, avoiding the play-in altogether. (SMBET)