In one of the best Western rivalries, the Golden State Warriors take on the Los Angeles Clippers for the second time this season, in Staples Center. The Warriors (12-0) look to continue their undefeated season in a matchup that the Clippers (6-4) are looking for revenge from a loss to Golden State just a week ago.
The Warriors grabbed a win over the Raptors on Tuesday night in a game that should not have been as close as it was. Golden State led by as much as 18 but the Raptors fought back, inching their way back with made shots and a plethora of free throws.
"We hold ourselves to a very high standard," Curry said. "We didn't put any pressure on them defensively in the third quarter, we were sloppy on a couple of possessions offensively and gave them life. Those are things we need to improve on. Everyone likes to learn those lessons in wins."
The Warriors did not look as dominant on the defensive end as they did last season, and to start this year. "I think we made the necessary plays we needed to," forward Draymond Green said. "Obviously, we can close the game out a lot better than we did. It never should have gotten to where it got."
Chris Paul has missed a couple of games due to a groin injury, which really hurts the offensive production from the Clippers. This will be huge tonight as not only is Chris Paul the leader and facilitator of the offense, but also he would normally guard Curry.
Jamal Crawford and Blake Griffin will be taking the burden of scoring to their own hands in this matchup. Crawford had 37 points while in the starting lineup in their last game. "We just needed to win," said Crawford, who was 3 for 7 from deep after going 3 for 13 in his previous five games. "I never really lose confidence in myself."
The Warriors come in with confidence through the roof. Klay Thompson seems to be getting his back rested and healed up, Bogut is back, and Curry has been the best player on the planet thus far in the season.
These two teams do not like each other. There's no doubt about that. Draymond Green did mention that his time with Griffin made their relationship "more cordial" but on the court is completely different than off the court when you're battling each other. Look for Curry to attack early, and since Paul and Reddick will both likely be out, the offense will force Crawford and Prigoni to move around frequently which could help the Warriors find open cutters and jumpshots. The main key for Golden State will be defending Blake Griffin. He's a hard one to defend but doing so will give the Warriors a huge advantage.