Saturday, February 09, 2019

Road Warriors--and Giannis' Crazy Picks

The Golden State Warriors were already on a tear when Boogie Cousins joined the starting five.  They've since been winning by big margins, tight games and coming from behind.  They've won 16 of their last 18 games, including an 11 game winning streak.  They've eclipsed 145 points twice.  At the moment they lead the West by 2.5 games.

Especially intriguing is their road record.  The Road Warriors have won 11 in a row, a streak that's still alive.  The Warriors used to be unbeatable at home, but perhaps distractions or just regular life have fooled with their focus, but they have been sloppier at home than on the road recently.  On the road, with nothing but basketball, they seem more locked in.  Of course, the home fires will be burning more fiercely as the playoffs come closer.

The All-Star break is coming soon, emphasis on break.  The festivities highlight is likely to be the 3 point shooting match between the Curry brothers.  Thanks to the crazy picks by Giannis Antetokounmpo, LeBron James got the better team, by a lot. That he's also getting to audition possible Lakers teammates is at least a bonus for him.  But Team LeBron is so much better that spectators are going to have to count on a certain playfulness and low-key spirit to avoid an embarrassing blowout.