Curry and Green Roll Back the Years in Warriors' Play-In Triumph
Stephen Curry delivered a masterclass performance, scoring 35 points and hitting seven three-pointers, to propel the Golden State Warriors to a thrilling 126-121 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers in Wednesday's NBA play-in game. This win keeps the Warriors' season alive, setting up a crucial matchup against the Phoenix Suns for a playoff berth.
Dazzling Display from Curry
Curry's shooting prowess was on full display, particularly in the second half where he racked up 27 points. His final three-pointer, which broke a tie with just 50 seconds remaining, saw him tumble into the front row of Clippers fans as the ball swished through the net. This marked only his fifth game back from a 27-game absence due to a knee injury, yet he emphatically dismissed any suggestions of shutting down for the summer.
"This is what you work all year for, all summer, offseason," Curry remarked. "We're not guaranteed a playoff series yet, but these nights make everything worth it, because you feel the anxiety of having to perform when the lights are bright, do-or-die game. Considering how our season has gone, all the injuries and all that, for us to play the way we did tonight was special."
Green's Defensive Masterclass
While Curry handled the offense, Draymond Green took charge defensively, effectively neutralizing Kawhi Leonard in the fourth quarter. Green's smothering defense limited Leonard to just two shots in the final period, with the Clippers star finishing with 21 points but a fraction of his usual impact. Leonard praised Green as a "Hall of Fame defender", noting how difficult it was to even get shots up against him.
Green, who didn't score in the fourth quarter, was instrumental in the Warriors' comeback from a 13-point deficit. His efforts evoked memories of the team's championship era, with coach Steve Kerr expressing his delight: "For one night, we're us. We're champions again. And I know that may sound crazy to everybody out there. It's a play-in game. I don't care. Just absolutely beautiful to watch."
Supporting Cast Steps Up
The Warriors also received significant contributions from newcomers. Kristaps Porzingis added 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists, while 39-year-old Al Horford stunned the arena by hitting four three-pointers in the fourth quarter, despite playing only his third game after a month-long injury absence. This collective effort helped Golden State overcome a challenging regular season that saw them finish eight games below .500 and in 10th place in the Western Conference.
Looking Ahead to Phoenix
With this victory, the Warriors now face the Phoenix Suns on Friday night, with the winner securing a playoff series against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Curry emphasized the team's focus: "I know we're not satisfied. We want to go to Phoenix and guarantee a playoff series against OKC. That's the next goal, but for us to lock in on just 48 minutes, figure out how to get a win, knowing that the game was not going to be perfect, we were all pretty committed to that. The eight guys that got on the floor all had a part in making it happen."
Other Play-In Action
In Wednesday's other play-in game, the Philadelphia 76ers advanced by defeating the Orlando Magic 109-97, despite the absence of Joel Embiid. Tyrese Maxey led with 31 points, and VJ Edgecombe contributed 19 points and 11 rebounds. The Sixers will now face the Boston Celtics in a first-round series starting on Sunday.
