Warriors Cruise Past Rockets in Game 1
- By Shaki N. Wilson
- Apr 16, 2016
- 1 min read
The Houston Rockets won their last three games to earn the eighth spot in the Western Conference playoffs; their reward was a first round match-up against the defending champion Golden State Warriors, fresh off a 73 win season.
The Warriors picked up where they left off in the regular season by defeating the Rockets 104-78 to take a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series. Houston must find ways offensively to at least make this series somewhat interesting. James Harden scored just 17 points and did not attempt a free throw in the game, the first time that has happened since January, 2015. Despite not playing the fourth quarter because of ankle problems, Stephen Curry scored 24 points and Draymond Green finished his typical double-double.
Golden State led 33-15 after the first quarter and never looked back. The Warriors are not known for their defensive play, but they did great job holding the Rockets to 35 percent shooting in the game. Rockets head coach J.B. Bickerstaff needs to find ways for his offense to get going. Harden alone will not keep Houston in any game, especially with only 17 points. Dwight Howard, who finished with 14 points and 11 rebounds, must get more touches, even if that means going to the foul line.
Meanwhile Curry received plenty of help from his friends as the Warriors bench contributed 43 points led Maurice Speights' 12. Game two is set for Monday at Oracle Arena.
photo courtesy houstontoyotacenter.com
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