2023 Clutch Player of the Year Strikes Again but Fails to ?Light the Beam? Against Stephen Curry and Warriors

The NBA as a sport thrives on parity. With talent at an all-time high, the expectations were through the roof for this upcoming season. Somehow, so far, the returns are beyond those expectations. Due to the relatively even playing field, almost all matches have come down to the wire with barely any blowouts. As such, the parity led many to believe that it could be time for the new generation to take over and cement their status at the top of the league. In that conversation, no team was more prominent than the Sacramento Kings. After breaking a 2-decade playoff drought and an instant classic 7-game series with the Golden State Warriors, the team was ready to take over.

But in a rematch from that heartbreaking playoff series, it seems like there is more work to be done. There is time before the newest signee to the Under Armour Brand can overtake its chief – Stephen Curry. In another hot contest, the Warriors prevailed. But is Sacramento legit?

Stephen Curry outplays his protege in last year’s Playoffs rematch

The game was a see-saw battle throughout the night. While the role players did their part, it was Curry and De’Aaron Fox who were playing the star’s role. However, midway through the 4th, the Warriors were ready to pull away. But the NBA’s first-ever Clutch Player of the Year Award winner had different ideas.

Leading a late surge, he brought the Kings right back into the contest with barely a minute left. With fellow young-in Luka Doncic hitting 2 game-winners in his first 2 games, could Fox do the same? On pace with 19 points in the fourth, the stage was set for a Fox takeover. Due to an injured hand limiting him in the final games of last year’s series, was the Warriors’ victory a fluke?

With an intense atmosphere and last season’s playoff war still fresh on everyone’s minds, there was tension in the air. However, with Draymond Green missing due to injury, no incidents took place on the court.

Despite youth on their side, it was experience and poise that won it for Golden State. Curyy putting the team on his back, led with 41 points and 7 triples, icing the game in the final minute to put it out of Sac Town’s reach.

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Unfortunately, no beam was being lit today. But the loss caps off an incredible day of NBA basketball. Moreover, it brings to light a string of storylines to look out for.

The NBA and its storylines

Within a week, the NBA is firmly back. Whether it be snide comments, players-only meetings, game-winners, or alienesque sequences, the league is back to its wonderful best. However, it has also given way to the conversations that might prevail throughout the season.

But, from this game alone, it seems like the Bay Area dynasty might be back. Due to their disappointing run last year, many were quick to put Golden State’s run down. However, through two games, the team looks fresh and competitive, despite missing defensive anchor Draymond.

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With the Kings starting off 1-1, how long can they keep it up? With Fox’s exploits seemingly saving them in the clutch time and time again, can he repeat last year’s heroics? Only time will tell. But one thing is for sure.

The NBA is back.