After allowing 100 points for the first time all season to the Clippers, the Warriors face the ultimate test for their defense today. Facing their first real challenge since holding the Lakers to 87 point on their November 2nd loss, the Warriors will try to hold the Kings to under 100 points for only the fourth time all season. The only concern now is if the offense can play catchup with the Warriors surprisngly good defense this season. Known last year for scoring a lot, but giving up even more, the Warriors have seen a role reversal in their style of play. The offense has yet to hit the century mark. A lot of that burden can be put on injuries as two of the best scorers on the Warriors have missed significant amounts of time with injuries and suspensions. Nick Van Exel and Jason Richardson need to provide the offensive punch that fans in the Bay Area know they are capable of if the Warriors wish to keep up with the Kings, who are undefeated at home so far this season. On paper it seems as if the Kings should blow the Warriors out, but the depth of the Kings is matched evenly with the heart of two certain bench players on the Warriors. Calbert Chaeney and Brian Cardinal have paved the way for the Warriors success this season. They have more than made up for the scoring punch missing so far this season. The Warriors also need help from Clifford Robinson who has played below expectations so far in the young season. Eric Dampier will need the help in the frontcourt against the Kings' still solid frontcourt despite missing Chris Webber due to injury. With a win tonight the Warriors will be above .500, however with a loss they will be only the second team in the Western Conference with a losing record, joining the Phoenix Suns who stand at 3-6.
Warriors V Kings Game Thread... This is a good game so far Warriors were down early in the first quarter but GS fought back and now lead 38-34 in the 2nd quarter.With over 8 minutes left Brian Cardinal has led the charge with 8 points.CAn't believe the Pistons got rid of this guy.He is playing some great basketball this season Dampier 6 rebounds Nick Van Exel is not playing in this one. Peja has 12..with Bibby adding 8 for Kings <font color="DarkRed">Threads merged by sunsfan1357</font>
The Kings started out really hot. The Warriors contested every shot, but everyone on the Kings has a quick trigger and were able to sink the jumpers available. The second quarter was the complete opposite of the first with Brian Cardinal providing the hustle as usual and Cheaney opening things up on offense. JRich abused Jackson in the post and was able to slash to the hole consistently. The Kings still are getting too many second chance points though. Uncle Cliffy is producing like I said he needed to. Good game so far.
What a great game. Too bad the Warriors couldn't pull it off. J-Rich had a decent look in the final secs but I still tip my hat off to them for playing the Kings so tough in Arco.
