Western Conference Recaps, April 20: Stephen Curry Gets Golden State Back Into Series Against Sacramento Kings
The Sacramento Kings looked as if they were on their way to sweep the Golden State Warriors.
Stephen Curry had other plans.
He scored 36 points to lead the Warriors to a 114-97 victory against the Kings. With Draymond Green serving a suspension, Andrew Wiggins recorded 20 points but Klay Thompson struggled. He only had 13 points while hitting five of his 15 shots.
“We’re a team with a lot of pride, we know how to respond when our back’s against the wall, we always usually show up,” said Kevon Looney, who had 20 rebounds. “I think Draymond knew that. Without him playing he knew how we were going to respond. He knew he could count on us to hold down the fort while he’s out. We’re excited to get him back next game.”
De’Aaron Fox had 26 points for the Kings while Domantas Sabonis recorded 15 points and 16 rebounds.
Game 4 is Sunday at Golden State
OTHERS
-Devin Booker put on one of the best scoring displays of his playoff career.
With Kevin Durant being defended well, the Phoenix Suns relied on Booker. He scored 45 points in a 129-124 victory against the Los Angeles Clippers, taking a 2-1 series lead.
Instead of relying on 3-pointers, he constantly found his way to the paint.
“He set the tone, got to the rim, making plays for others, just controlling the whole game,” said Durant, who finished with 28 points. “We’re going to need him to do that going forward.”
With Kawhi Leonard out, reserve Norman Powell, started for the Clippers. He scored 42 points, hitting seven 3-pointers. Russell Westbrook recorded 30 points and 12 assists.
“Those are those trick games, where you think somebody is missing one of their top players and you let off the gas a little bit,” Booker said. “They played their (rear ends) off tonight. The whole team was prepared for that so we didn’t take a step back.”
Game 4 is Saturday in Los Angeles
-Cory Nelson is a contributor to Inside The Heat. He attended Northern Virginia Community College. He can be reached at corymckenzienelson@hotmail.com or follow him on Twitter @CKenzyNelson. You can also check out his personal blog HERE.
