<< photo by Marek Piwnicki >>
In a must-win Game 3 against the Los Angeles Lakers, the Golden State Warriors were expected to come out all guns blazing. However, things went awry for the Warriors, as they suffered a massive 30-point blowout. Klay Thompson, who had an impressive 30-point outing in Game 2, had a poor performance, with just 15 points and 7 rebounds. In his post-game interview, he admitted the Warriors “got punked tonight, unfortunately.”
What Went Wrong for the Warriors?
The Warriors’ shortcomings were highlighted in Game 3, and they need to address them before heading into Game 4. The Warriors’ 3-point shooting was one of their biggest strengths in the series, but they shot just 30% from the beyond the arc, making only 9 of their 30 attempts. The Warriors’ overall field-goal percentage was also underwhelming, as they shot just 39.6% from the field. The Lakers, on the other hand, had a much better shooting night and shot 52.5% from the field, including an impressive 48.4% from 3-point range.
The Warriors also struggled to take care of the ball, committing 19 turnovers in the game, which led to quick transition points for the Lakers. Furthermore, they were outrebounded by the Lakers, and allowed LeBron James and Anthony Davis to get to the free-throw line with ease.
Can the Warriors Bounce Back in Game 4?
To get back into the series, the Warriors have a lot of work to do, and they need to address their shortcomings to avoid making it a repeat of Game 3. The Warriors need to get back to their winning ways from Game 2 and dominate the Lakers from start to finish. Their 3-point shooting needs to be more efficient, and Klay Thompson needs to step up his game. Thompson admitted that he was not able to find open spaces for his teammates in Game 3 and lacked sharp, crisp passing. If he can get back to his play-making ways, it will not only provide his team with scoring opportunities but also help in opening up the Lakers‘ defense.
The Warriors also need to improve their defensive intensity. In Game 3, the Lakers had six players scoring in double digits, with half of them making less than four attempts from the 3-point line. The Warriors need to be more active on the boards and limit the Lakers‘ second-chance opportunities.
Conclusion
Klay Thompson promised to clap back at the Lakers in Game 4. The Warriors need to win Game 4 to avoid falling into an insurmountable 3-1 deficit. Thompson’s playoffs experience, along with that of his fellow splash brother Stephen Curry, can be crucial in helping the Warriors bounce back. If the Warriors can address their shortcomings, be more efficient in their 3-point shooting, and be more aggressive on both ends of the floor, they have a good chance of winning Game 4 and getting back into the series.
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