How the Warriors Match Up With the Clippers

November 3, 2012; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors shooting guard Stephen Curry (30) controls the ball against the defense of Los Angeles Clippers point guard Chris Paul (3) during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

The Warriors and the Clippers have had a very unique rivalry that started earlier this season, when David Lee got in the face of Blake Griffin and told him to stop flopping. Ever since then, the Warriors and the Clippers have gotten together for some very entertaining games. They’re likely to see each other in the first round, and everybody expects the Clippers to win. What many don’t realize however, is that the Warriors have stars to match the Clippers stars.

What Comparisons can we Make?

1. Stephen Curry vs Chris Paul:

This is perhaps a fantastic matchup. If the Warriors do see the Clippers in the first round, this will be the matchup to watch all series long. Paul is a great guard who handles and scores down the stretch, all while passing the ball the rest of the game. Curry is one of the purest shooters in the NBA, and is a great passer as well. Both with smart decision making, Paul and Curry provide an equal matchup. Too bad the master hasn’t lost to the apprentice, yet.

Winner: Chris Paul, for now

2. Klay Thompson vs Chauncey Billups:

Chauncey Billups in an NBA veteran and knows how to play the game. He used to be a legend, and has now come to a small role, that is good enough to earn him a starting slot. Klay Thompson, on the other hand is improving with his decision making, and is becoming one of the best young shooters in the NBA. They both have a lot to offer for their team, but Thompson is just a bit more promising.

Winner: Klay Thompson

3. Harrison Barnes vs Caron Butler:

Barnes is a dynamic young rookie, who shows flashes of brilliance, and a very bright future. This is a guy that can drive to the basket any time he wants, while occasionally hitting a three point shot. Barnes will be a young star, but he only provides a small contribution at 9 PPG as of now. Butler is an NBA veteran who knows how to score. At times, he can be the Clippers’ most dangerous player. He’s an excellent small forward, and will clearly win this matchup, unless Barnes comes out of his shell in the playoffs.

Winner: Caron Butler

4. David Lee vs Blake Griffin:

This is the second matchup to watch during the series. Lee and Griffin may have reconciled their differences at the all-star game, but I’m sure Lee would go at this matchup any day. With a great shot-blocker like Bogut to back him up, Lee probably won’t really need help preventing Griffin from dunking, which is why he scores so much. Lee isn’t the best defender, but neither is Griffin. Nevertheless, they’re both all-stars and good rebounders. I hate to say this, but Lee’s hard work and simple play is better than Griffin’s flashiness.

Winner: David Lee, 55% of the time

5. Andrew Bogut vs DeAndre Jordan:

This is a fairly fun matchup. Two 7 footers, who have totally different play. Bogut is the more efficient one who is just a great player overall, fitting back into his offensive groove now. Deandre Jordan, on the other hand, is a dynamic, dunking center, who likes the excitement he instills in himself. That’s right, this is exactly like the Lee – Griffin matchup. Bogut, however, is an excellent defender, whether it’s shot blocking or rebounding. I can’t escape the feeling that he will be own Jordan in the matchup.

Winner: Andrew Bogut