The matchup of the game when the San Antonio Spurs play their second game of a back to back against the Golden State Warriors will be between Tony Parker and Stephen Curry.
This will be the second meeting between the two teams this, but the first that Stephen Curry will be involved in. Curry was injured during their first matchup and Golden State substituted Jarrett Jack in the starting lineup. Curry was seen as a "snub" for the All-Star Game, so look for him to be playing with plenty of motivation. Parker is coming off a 31 point and 7 assist game against the Los Angeles Clippers last night. TP only played 28 minutes last night which will leave his legs fresher than usual coming off a back to back.
What Parker must do on offense:
The Warriors are 26th (101.4ppg) in the league in points allowed, which will help Tony Parker's scoring even if he's coming in a bit fatigued. Look for Parker to pick on David Lee in pick and roll situations where he's not known as a great help defender. This will open up opportunities for Tim Duncan or Tiago Splitter. Curry isn't known as a defender either and that will allow Parker to pick apart the defense if he can make his mid range shot. Parker has to get off his shot quick against this Warriors team to get back in time for defense as the Warriors prefer a running game.
What Parker must do on defense:
Curry is a good passer with a 6.6apg average, but he's more of a shooter than anything else. He's a versatile shooter also, in that he can create his own shot and spot up on the court. Parker must stay in front of him and look to contest everything while fighting back the temptation to jump at the defender and cause an And 1 situation. Parker's speed may match Curry's game and neutralize Stephen's strengths and that would open up the game for San Antonio since they're do deep and versatile at every position. Tony also has to force Curry off the three point line (where he's shooting 43% from the wing and 54% from the corner) to the paint area. Curry is shooting 38% from that area, but Tony has to play smart defense and not allow him too close to the rim since Curry is shooting 51% from the restricted area.