The Golden State Warriors initially secured victories in six out of their first eight games. However, they have experienced a troubling downturn, losing six consecutive matches. Despite Stephen Curry’s incredible form, the Warriors look out of sorts. Head coach, Steve Kerr faces a significant challenge to turn their fortunes around. The Warriors currently occupy the 10th spot in the Western Conference standings. They face a rejuvenated and motivated Houston Rockets in their next match.
The Bay Area loyalists haven’t experienced such a drop off in performances in decades. They would hope that their beloved Warriors could arrest this slump as quickly as possible. Steph Curry could prove to be the difference against the Rockets. However, concerns about his fitness have arisen due to his recent absence.
Curry likely to start against the Rockets
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The Warriors slumped to their sixth consecutive defeat against the OKC Thunder on November 18th. Curry returned against the Thunders after missing the prior two games. He scored 25 points in 40 minutes, but couldn’t will the Warriors to victory, as they lost 123-130 in overtime.
Despite his age, Steph has continued to have an immense influence on the Warriors fortunes. In his 16th season as an NBA professional, he has averaged 30.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.8 assists in 12 games.
The Rockets provide the Warriors with a tough match-up. Under Ime Udoka’s leadership, Houston has become one of the most defensively sound teams in the NBA. Additionally, the Warriors will be without Draymond Green, who was handed a 5 game suspension for choking Rudy Gobert. They would also miss the services of 30-year-old guard Gary Payton II. Payton has been ruled out due to an ankle injury he sustained during the game against the OKC Thunder.
Predicted Lineups: Warriors vs Rockets
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The Rockets would aim to continue their promising start to the season. At the moment, they hold the 7th position in the Western Conference with a record of six wins and five losses. Houston would begin the game with Jalen Green, Fred VanVleet, Dillon Brooks, Jabari Smith Jr. and Alperen Sengun.
On the other hand, the Warriors would look to end their losing streak with a morale-boosting victory against the Rockets. Draymond Green (suspension) remains the only noticeable absentee on the Warriors roster. They would start the game with Steph Curry, Chris Paul, Klay Thompson, Andrew Wiggins and Kevon Looney.
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The game begins at 10:00 PM, Eastern Time at the Chase Center in San Francisco. Another intriguing matchup between the Spurs and Clippers begins at 8:00 PM, Eastern Time.
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