2023-04-20 14:30:39
Match 3 tonight of this 100% Californian series between the Warriors and the Kings. Golden State is (finally) playing at home after suffering two away losses. Victory is mandatory under penalty of having a 100% chance of being eliminated from the Playoffs according to the stats. But are the Warriors really capable of it without Draymond Green on the field?
While the trend announced this matchup as being the best for the Warriors and the worst for the Kings, it is clear that … no. Sacramento dominates the proceedings and leads 2-0 in the series. After a Game 1 carried by a flamboyant De’Aaron Fox – Malik Monk duo, Game 2 was won more collectively. This meeting was especially marked by the crushing of the sternum of Domantas Sabonis by Draymond Green. Incidentally, Golden State’s defensive leader was suspended for Game 3. This is a real puzzle on the state of the defense of the Warriors. Already this season, she is not starting from very high (14th in the whole League), without the best element, we can imagine De’Aaron Fox even better punching her with drives.
Draymond Green has been suspended for Game 3.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 19, 2023
Still, the Warriors desperately need this win. Without her, it’s 3-0 Kings. The numbers are clear: no franchise in Playoffs history has rebounded a 3-0 lead. Sure, we’re talking about the Warriors dynasty capable of anything against the Kings, who were a punchline for 17 years, but things seem to have changed a lot. The record of these Warriors since the beginning of their history in 2015 without Draymond is 60 wins for 117 games played, or just over half. To win without him, you’re going to need a 200% home crowd and impeccable Splash Bros on offense because the defense is likely to take fare. Precisely, in attack, it is the moment of step-up for Kevon Looney. And if Andrew Wiggins could get back to his 2022 level for one night, the Warriors would gladly take it. The small hope for Bay players remains this uncertain status of Domantas Sabonis. The Lithuanian has a bruised sternum and may not be present tonight – or at least not 100%. The local interior sector should then breathe a little in defense.
See you tonight at 4 a.m. for this unmissable encounter at the Oracle Arena. The Warriors have a great home record this season. With their experience, this squad knows how important this game is and how to attach the necessary performance to it.
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