Stephen Curry and David Lee carried the offense and Andrew Bogut took care of the defense as the Warriors gritted out a 97-87 win over the Pelicans on Saturday night at New Orleans Arena.
Curry finished with 28 points, while Lee added 22. Bogut finished with 10 points, 15 rebounds and five blocked shots as the Warriors (26-16) salvaged a split of a two-game road trip.
The Warriors trailed for most of the first half before waking up in the third quarter and seizing a game against an injury-ravaged New Orleans team. The Pelicans (15-24), without point guard Jrue Holiday and forward Ryan Anderson, lost their eighth consecutive game.
STANDOUT PERFORMANCE
Curry's control and judgment were magnificent, as he consistently beat defenders off the dribble to get all the way to the rim. In 37 minutes, the man leading the league in turnovers committed none.
Also deserving of mention is Bogut's rebounding and late-game defense. He battled New Orleans star Anthony David (31 points, 17 rebounds) near standoff on the glass. Of Bogut's five blocks, three came in the final three minutes to rebuff any semblance of a Pelicans comeback.
TURNING POINT
With the score tied 64-64 and 4:54 left in the third quarter, the Warriors went on 14-2, taking a 78-66 lead with 1:30 left in the quarter. Curry scored 7 points during the rally.
The Warriors never again trailed or were tied, finally finishing the Pelicans with an 8-3 kick at the end.
INJURY UPDATE
Centers Jermaine O'Neal (right wrist surgery) and Festus Ezeli (right knee surgery), and guard Nemanja Nedovic (strained left hamstring), are out.
WHAT'S NEXT
The Warriors return to Oakland on Sunday and will face Eastern Conference power Indiana on Monday night at Oracle Arena. The Warriors haven't won a season series against the Pacers since 2000-01 but have won four of the last five meetings in Oakland.
Nominate your favorite All-Star Teacher today!
