Warriors Jeopardize Postseason Dreams In Loss To Denver
For weeks, this game had been circled on both teams' schedule as one that would have important ramifications in the race for the final Western Conference playoff spot. So when the league's two highest scoring teams, Golden State and Denver took the floor, everyone knew that the fate of a terrific season was on the line. Sadly for Dubs' fan though, after a spectacular first quarter that finished with Golden State up 15, the team faltered over the next three quarters for a crushing 114-105 loss that likely nukes any chances for a second straight postseason run. Barring a total collapse by Denver, it will be nearly impossible for the Warriors to make up two games with only three remaining.
Once again, the Dubs were victimized by poor shooting from it's two biggest stars, Baron Davis and Stephen Jackson, who combined to shoot 14 of 42 from the field in the year's most important game. Given how critical this game was, and knowing that both players are generally clutch performers in big games, it's pretty clear that fatigue from overuse has set in, and they just cannot summon the needed resources to get over the hump. As has also been the case in recent weeks, the Warriors' biggest bright spot was Monta Ellis who scored 29 points on 13 of 16 shooting from the field. The Nuggest were led by their all-star tandem of Allen Iverson and Carmelo Anthony who combined for 58 points on 24 of 42 shooting from the field.
Ultimately, if the Warriors do indeed fail to capture a playoff spot, there will be plenty of time for soul-searching. The thoughts that will stand out will be bad home losses to a depleted Chicago, Minnesota, and Atlanta, as well as an 0-6 start due to the suspension of Stephen Jackson. With so many pending free agents, will Mully decide to blow the team up, or will they seek to reload and give Nelly one last chance at the golden ring, with the current group of players? The offseason promises to be a fascinating one for the Dubs.
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