The Golden State Warriors did what they needed to do.
Despite ending the regular season losing two of their last three games, the Warriors regrouped to defeat the Memphis Grizzlies in a nail-biter of a game.
At first, it looked as if the Warriors were going to run away with it, as they were up 20 in the middle of the second quarter.
But as 20-point leads seem to do in the NBA, it evaporated.
Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry dribbles against Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James.
Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
Warriors player delivers strong Stephen Curry message
Jimmy Butler carried the team early. He was seemingly able to get anything he wanted and got to the free-throw line at will.
But late in the game, the Grizzlies had managed to cut the Warriors\’ lead down to just three. That\’s when Stephen Curry reminded us of his greatness.
Hampered by a thumb injury, Curry was in visible discomfort. That didn\’t stop him from doing what he does best: close out important games.
He scored 15 of his 37 points in the fourth quarter, helping the Warriors secure the No. 7 seed in the NBA Playoffs.
Ahead of their matchup with the No. 2 seed Houston Rockets, Warriors center Quinten Post delivered a strong message regarding how the Rockets will defend the four-time champion.
“What I do know is they aren\’t going to hold Steph to three points again. I know that for a fact,” said Post.
The Warriors fell to the Rockets on April 6 when Curry went just 1-for-10 from the field.
The Rockets played the Warriors close this season, but Golden State still won the season series 3-2.
Despite being the No. 7 seed, the Warriors are the favorites to win the series. According to the oddsmakers, the Warriors are -185 to win, which implies a 64.9% probability.
Game 1 tips off Sunday at 9:40 p.m. ET.