4
3
Jan
Preview: Warriors at Magic
by Mike
Golden State
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@ |
Orlando
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Amway Center
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| 2010-11 Meetings | ||
|---|---|---|
| January 3, 2011 • Recap | ||
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Warriors | 90 |
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Magic | 110 |
| March 11, 2011 • Recap | ||
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Magic | 120 |
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Warriors | 123 |
The Warriors face another hot Florida team in the Magic, who have won five straight after restocking their roster. Can the Warriors rebound from their tough loss at the Heat? Or will they continue the second half flameout that saw them give up a big lead on the road? What to watch for tonight:
- Attitude. As I mentioned in the recap for the last game, this is a moment where the much talked about team chemistry could really make a big difference (in making sure they’re not flat — still not sure if they can make up for the talent difference). Will they come out with their heads held high, or will they lose the game in the first quarter as they did regularly during Lee’s absence?
- Inside-Outside. The Magic can shoot the lights out from three, but then they also have beasts inside in Howard and Bass. That’s not a good combination for the Warriors’ scrambling defense, as they regularly break down and leave a man open in an effort to provide help inside after guards blow by Monta and Curry. This could be a chance for Udoh to make a mark playing some tough inside defense, especially if Biedrins remains out (since I have very little confidence in Lee’s ability to hang with Howard).
- All-Star. These final games of the road trip could be make-or-break for Monta’s All-Star chances, as he won’t get many more chances to play in the eastern time zone before the rosters get picked. He definitely has some ground to make up — largely because of the Warriors’ record — but a couple big games against the Magic and Hornets could do wonders for his national profile. Let’s see if he can seize the opportunity…
Tags: brandon bass, david lee, dwight howard, ekpe udoh, magic, monta ellis, stephen curry, warriors
