OAKLAND -– Though the Warriors don't break into song at the sight of the Raptors walking into Oracle Arena, they couldn't be blamed if they did.
When the teams meet Friday night in Oakland, the Warriors will be trying to extend their home win streak to 11 when the Raptors visit. The last time the Warriors lost to Toronto here, in 2004, Eric Musselman was coaching a roster that included Calbert Cheaney and Nick Van Exel.
[POOLE: Warriors' Curry positioned at No. 2 in All-Star voting]
Much has changed for both teams in recent years. The Warriors (25-5) are seeking their third consecutive winning season, something last achieved in 1978. The Raptors (24-8) are trying to crack the 50-win barrier for the first time in their 20-year history.
Toronto came close to breaking the streak last season, taking an 18-point lead into the fourth quarter before the Warriors rallied to victory.
OPENING LINE
Warriors by 6.
MATCHUPS TO WATCH
Stephen Curry vs. Kyle Lowry. It's a clash of styles, with Curry relying largely on finesse and Lowry the attacking bulldog. Curry last season validated his All-Star status at point guard, while many considered Lowry a notable snub. Lowry is having another fine season, one that would seem certain to put him in the classic.
Mareese Speights vs. Jonas Valanciunas. At age 22, the 7-foot Valanciunas also is a top-10 center and moving up the charts. He has had nine double-doubles this season, as many as Marc Gasol and one more than Joakim Noah. Speights, at a distinct height disadvantage, will have his hands full.
KEYS TO VICTORY
1-Lace up the spikes. The Warriors are at their best when they rebound and run. The Raptors don't mind running, but the Warriors are a couple ticks faster – and need to exploit that.
2-Win the bench battle. The Warriors have a good bench and it will need to be on its game to outplay the Raptors' top-5 bench, featuring dynamic guard Lou Williams.
3-Bring the swagger. The Warriors expect a playoff atmosphere and should start accordingly. They need to quickly remind the Raptors that Oakland is the wrong place to look for a road victory.
LAST 10:
Warriors 7-3. Raptors 8-2.
INJURY REPORT
Warriors: C Andrew Bogut (chondromalacia and bone edema) and C Festus Ezeli (sprained left ankle) are listed as out indefinitely.
Raptors: G DeMar DeRozan (injury) is listed as out. G Landry Fields (concussion) is listed as probable.
SERIES HISTORY
The Warriors have won the last nine in a row at Oracle and 13 of the last 17 overall. They have not lost a season series to Toronto since 2002.
Nominate your favorite All-Star Teacher today!
