3 Keys Warriors Fans Can Expect In Game Three
The Golden State Warriors are on a roll as the top team in the league. They have won both games in the first round playoff matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans and they look to continue their success in game three tonight.
They may be high in confidence, but that is mostly due to them playing those two games at Oakland's Oracle Arena, also known as the "Roaracle" - the league's loudest and most engaged crowd. They have only lost twice at home out of 43 games this season and own a serious home-court advantage.
The Warriors won't have the comfort of playing on their own court, so here are some things to expect from tonight's matchup in New Orleans:
3. The Smoothie King Center will give Oracle Arena a run for it's money
Pelicans head coach Monty Williams complained that Oracle was too loud and they couldn't communicate effectively. New Orleans, however, hasn't made the postseason since 2011 - they may bring the noise too.
The Warriors are used to the loud environment, but with 18,000 Pelicans fans cheering for the home team, they will be somewhat of an underdog. Communication is key and being able to hear your teammates will be important for Golden State.
2. Anthony Davis is angry
Game one was a good example of how Davis can take over a game. He scored 20 fourth quarter points and absolutely dominated the paint with Andrew Bogut on the bench.
Game two was a different story. Head coach Steve Kerr put Draymond Green on the MVP candidate and he was shut down in the final quarter, going 0-5 from the field. Davis was also on the court for 45 minutes, his career high for a non-overtime game.
Look for him to be hungry in game three. With their backs almost against the wall, Davis and the Pelicans will need to raise the intensity to climb out of the hole they are in.
1. Warriors come out hot
Although they will be on the road in a hostile arena, Stephen Curry and the rest of the team will be a relaxed and focused group.
A win tonight will take a lot of air out of the Pelicans, going up 3-0 with half of the remaining games in the series at home. The warriors are rested and confident in their game plan, coming out to a hot start can take the crowd out of the game. Once the crowd has quieted, the Warriors can easily put the Pelicans away.
Russell Preston/KHTK Sacramento