After a tough loss in Houston, the Golden State Warriors remain confident despite having to play a decisive Game 7 to keep their season alive. The team’s advantage in playoff experience and particularly its history in clutch situations may be key.
Golden State stars Stephen Curry and Draymond Green have played in five Game 7s, going 3-2, with Curry averaging 32.6 points per game in these do-or-die matches, fourth most in NBA history. Jimmy Butler has also gained valuable experience in four Game 7s, going 2-2.
Coach Steve Kerr praised the team’s ability to stay connected and overcome frustration, saying “Staying together will not be an issue.” He expressed confidence in the team’s chances, citing their success in previous Game 7s and Butler’s clutch performances.
The Warriors’ struggles against Houston’s zone defense have been a major challenge. The team shot just 13-for-30 against the zone, according to ESPN Research. However, Curry emphasized that if they take their shots, they can overcome any defensive strategy.
Despite being down in Game 5 by as many as 31 points early in the third quarter, the Warriors believe they can win in a hostile environment at the Toyota Center, where they did win in Game 1. Butler described the team’s confidence as “all-time high,” and Green joked that playing Game 7s is “fun.”
The team will pack their bags for Houston and hope to advance to play the Minnesota Timberwolves next week. With a positive mentality and relying on their experience, the Warriors are ready to take on the Rockets in what could be a decisive Game 7.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44977597/warriors-pushed-game-7-confidence-not-wavering