| TEAM LEADERS | |||
| Points | Rebounds | Assists | |
| SPURS | Manu Ginobili 20.6 | Tim Duncan 9.5 | Tony Parker 7.0 |
| WARRIORS | Monta Ellis 24.8 | Andris Biedrins 9.9 | Stephen Curry 5.7 |
The San Antonio Spurs have won 24 straight home games against the Warriors since Tim Duncan’s rookie season, an astounding streak they’ll look to extend tonight as they take aim at the best start in franchise history.
The Warriors (8-13) are coming off a 105-100 loss to the Dallas Mavericks. They’ve lost nine straight overall to the Spurs, the latest a 118-98 loss in Oakland last November 30 as Duncan recorded a triple-double performance (15 points, 18 rebounds and 11 assists).
With a win tonight, the Spurs can claim their best start in franchise history. They would top the 2007-08 team that lost its 21st game — at Golden State, ironically — after also opening 17-3.
The Spurs won their last game against the New Orleans Hornets a 109-84 blowout in San Antonio. Stephen Curry scored 32 points the last time these two teams met.
KEYS TO THE GAME
SPURS:
WARRIORS:
Offense — The bulk of their offense comes from their backcourt. However, they also have an inside game with David Lee and Biedrins in the paint.
Defense — Limit Parker, Jefferson, Hill and Ginobili’s dribble penetrations. Contain Duncan inside the paint and guard the Spurs’ perimeter shooters.
INJURIES
Spurs — James Anderson – stress fracture (out)
Warriors — Louis Amundson – finger (day-to-day), Rodney Carney – sprained right foot (day-to-day)
PREDICTION: The Spurs have owned the Warriors in past but they have to respect their opponent to avoid any kind of letdown. The Warriors will try their hardest to get back to the win column on the second night of a back-to-back.
However, the Spurs are a veteran team and after a getting some needed rest, they should be ready for this one and extend their winning streak to three games.
