With Kawhi Leonard out, San Antonio had no chance against the Warriors’ offensive barrage.
With superstar Kawhi Leonard out with an ankle injury suffered on Sunday, the Spurs’ chances going into Game 2 were slim to begin with.
But even if Leonard played, San Antonio would have had their hands full containing the Warriors, who were red-hot from downtown and stifling on defense. The Warriors were up by seventeen after the first quarter, and continued to increase the lead throughout the game. The Warriors won 136-100, with their starters sitting the entire final quarter.
Stephen Curry led the way, scoring 29 points on thirteen shots in only 30 minutes. Kevin Durant and Draymond Green added 16 and 13, respectively, in fewer minutes than usual. Seven players ended in double figures scoring, highlighting the Warrior’s depth. The Dubs passed well and scored from distance, tallying up 39 assists and 18 three-pointers. That’s a combination that won’t lose the Warriors many games.
With Andre Iguodala out with knee soreness, Patrick McCaw stepped up with pesky defense, playmaking, and scoring, finishing with 18 points, five assists, and three steals. Ian Clark and Shaun Livingston also shined, with ten points apiece. Combined, all three bench guards were 15-22 from the field.
The Spurs needed a big game from LaMarcus Aldridge offensively with Leonard out. They did not get one: Aldridge scored only eight points on 4-11 shooting, and was attacked defensively. Only Jonathon Simmons was able to create his own offense, scoring 22 well-earned points. Ultimately, the Spurs aren’t going to be able to compete offensively without Kawhi.
Game 3 is on Saturday, giving Kawhi Leonard, Andre Iguodala, and the newly-injured Zaza Pachulia (he seems to be ok) time to heal. In San Antonio, expect the Spurs to come out with fire in an attempt to swing the momentum of the series.
