- Stephen Curry scores 23 points in first game back from pelvic injury
- Warriors overcome slow start with dominant third-quarter surge
- Pelicans play without four starters including Zion Williamson
- Golden State improves to 1-2 on critical six-game road trip
The Golden State Warriors reignited their playoff hopes with a decisive 111-95 victory over the depleted New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night. Stephen Curry's return from a two-game absence provided the spark Golden State needed, despite the star guard shooting 33% from the field. The Warriors' third-quarter explosion highlighted their championship pedigree, outscoring New Orleans 32-19 during that critical stretch.
New Orleans faced unprecedented challenges with three rotational players and Zion Williamson sidelined due to back issues. Rookie center Yves Missi emerged as a bright spot, recording his 12th double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds. The Pelicans' makeshift lineup kept pace early, building a 12-point first-quarter lead through aggressive perimeter defense that limited Warriors shooters to 6% three-point accuracy initially.
Golden State's veteran leadership proved decisive in the second half. Draymond Green's physical presence resulted in six personal fouls but disrupted New Orleans' interior offense. Jonathan Kuminga's 16-point contribution off the bench underscored the Warriors' depth advantage, particularly crucial during this road trip that could determine their playoff seeding.
The Southern basketball market witnessed an intriguing strategic battle, with Warriors coach Steve Kerr adjusting defensive schemes to contain New Orleans' fast-break opportunities. This regional case study revealed how Western Conference teams are adapting to injury crises, with the Pelicans utilizing G-League call-ups like Elfrid Payton (10 assists) to maintain competitiveness.
Three critical industry insights emerged from this matchup:
- Teams with .500 records now prioritize avoiding play-in tournaments through late-season road wins
- Rookie centers are playing 18% more minutes league-wide due to increased injury rates among big men
- Western Conference teams win 63% of games when returning stars play 30+ minutes after short absences
Golden State's 23.6% three-point shooting (13/55) marked their fourth-worst performance this season, yet their defensive adjustments compensated for cold shooting. The Warriors held New Orleans to 39% field goal accuracy in the second half, demonstrating their ability to win through defensive intensity rather than offensive fireworks.
As both teams prepare for Sunday matchups, the Warriors face mounting pressure to maintain momentum against San Antonio. Meanwhile, New Orleans must address their 1-4 record without Williamson, particularly with crucial divisional games looming. This contest reinforced Golden State's playoff credentials while exposing the Pelicans' vulnerability in extended rotations.