Curry, Landry, Barnes and Bogut All Out Against Cavs: Game Preview

Cleveland Cavaliers point guard Kyrie Irving (2) commits a turnover against Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson (11) in the fourth quarter. (David Richard-US PRESSWIRE)

Last night, Stephen Curry was forced to leave the game due to an ankle injury. This couldn’t come at a worse time. Yes, the Warriors’ toughest stretch of games are officially over, but the Cavs are surging and looking to extend a winning streak.

Led by likely staring point guard in the All-Star game Kyrie Irving, the Warriors are going to have some trouble handling the ball.

Keys To Winning the Game:

1. Let Jarrett Jack Take Control: Jarrett Jack had trouble last night, shooting 4-of-10 from the field. Luckily, he was still able to score when it mattered. If the Warriors let Jack control of the game, he’ll have no problem assisting his teammates and taking the open jump shot.

2. Feed David Lee: Lee is hungry. After being named an All-Star, he has truly been an… All-Star. He is surging these past couple games, and he’s not done. He will continue to be a huge force on this young Warriors’ team. If Golden State gives him the ball, he will go to work.

3. Run Screens For Klay Thompson: Klay Thompson’s shooting touch is back. No more talks of a Sophomore Slump, as Thompson is averaging more than 19 points in his last couple games. Luckily for the Warriors, he scores some pretty big numbers when Curry sits out with Injury. Thompson will need to be one of the primary scorer next to David Lee.

4. Slow Down Irving: This season, Irving is averaging 23 points. We knew he was good, but this good? He’s going to be a starter in the All-Star game. Whether it’s Thompson or Jack, the Warriors need to find a way to slow him down.

Game Predictions:

Matchup to Watch: David Lee vs anyone

Players to Watch: David Lee, Kyrie Irving

Leading Scorer: Kyrie Irvin, 25

Winner: Warriors by 5

Probable Lineups:

1. Jarrett Jack vs. Kyrie Irving

2. Klay Thompson vs. Dion Waiters

3. Richard Jefferson vs Alonzo Gee

4. David Lee vs. Tristan Thompson

5. Festus Ezeli vs. Tyler Zeller

Injury Report

It’s ironic how things work sometimes. Last night, the Warriors saw Andrew Bogut play for the first time since early November. But his return seemingly fueled more injuries on the Warriors’ front, as Stephen Curry, Harrison Barnes and perhaps Carl Landry are all out along with Bogut tonight.

Bogut wasn’t expected to play tonight to begin with, as the Warriors will ease him back into the thick of things, especially given how early he returned.

Meanwhile, Curry tweaked his ankle last night, and the soreness probably amounted over the night, thus explaining his absensce from the lineup.

However, Barnes’ absence is a bit more surprising. We know he tweaked his knee last night after throwing down a thunderous jam. He came down awkwardly, feeling his knee immediately. But, he stayed in the game, and the injury didn’t appear to be anything serious. The North Carolina product will sit out tonight’s game, though.

Lastly, Landry’s shoulder will keep him fron playing as well.