Introduction: Warriors’ Home Struggle
The Golden State Warriors faced a tough challenge against the New Orleans Pelicans at home on the 13th. Despite a valiant effort to stage a comeback in the second half, the Warriors fell short in the end, losing 109-114. This defeat temporarily leaves them in 10th place in the Western Conference standings.
Pelicans’ Three-Point Barrage
In the second quarter, the Pelicans unleashed a relentless barrage of three-pointers, hitting 10 in total, to establish a double-digit lead. Although the Warriors mounted a comeback in the second half and even narrowed the gap to 3 points in the closing stages of the fourth quarter, Stephen Curry’s crucial attempt to tie the game fell short, resulting in the Warriors’ defeat.
Slow Start, Explosive Second Quarter
The Pelicans struggled to find their rhythm in the opening quarter, allowing the Warriors to take a double-digit lead. However, CJ McCollum’s buzzer-beating jumper at the end of the quarter narrowed the gap. The Pelicans then exploded in the second quarter, led by CJ McCollum’s five three-pointers, outscoring the Warriors 45-22 and taking a 14-point lead into halftime.
Warriors’ Comeback Efforts
The Warriors attempted to mount a comeback in the second half, capitalizing on the Pelicans’ slightly diminished three-point shooting. However, the Pelicans quickly responded with a barrage of three-pointers from Herbert Jones, Trey Murphy III, and Zion Williamson, extending their lead back to double digits.
Fourth Quarter Drama
In the fourth quarter, the Warriors staged a late rally, with Moses Moody scoring four consecutive points in the paint and Chris Paul and Klay Thompson hitting back-to-back three-pointers. Despite their efforts, the Pelicans maintained their lead with timely three-point shooting.
Individual Performances
Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 33 points, but also committed 7 turnovers. Klay Thompson contributed 19 points but struggled with his shooting efficiency. Draymond Green recorded a double-double with 12 rebounds and 11 assists. For the Pelicans, CJ McCollum led all scorers with 28 points, including 8 three-pointers, while Zion Williamson added 26 points and 6 steals, and Trey Murphy III scored 24 points.
Conclusion: Playoff Implications
With this loss, the Warriors remain in 10th place in the Western Conference standings, while the Los Angeles Lakers’ victory today brings them within one game of the Warriors. The Pelicans’ victory extends their lead over the Phoenix Suns to 1.5 games for the 7th seed in the West. (LODIBET)