Golden State Warriors vs. Houston Rockets Western Conference Finals Preview
Key Matchups
Jan 17, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets center Dwight Howard (12) scores a basket during the third quarter against the Golden State Warriors at Toyota Center. The Warriors defeated the Rockets 131-106. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Andrew Bogut vs. Dwight Howard: As previously discussed, these players are two of the best defensive centers in the NBA. Both can block shots, inhale rebounds, and alter shots based on their footwork, help defense, and quick instincts. Offensively, Bogut isn’t a threat. Most of his offense comes from pick-and-rolls or lobs. Howard is more of an offensive threat than Bogut is though, so Bogut will have to put all of his energy into the defensive end and receive some help from Green to contain Howard.
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Klay Thompson vs. James Harden: These players are two of the best shooting guards in the NBA. Even though Harden is a superstar, the runner-up MVP, and one of the most dangerous offensive threats in the NBA, Thompson is more well-rounded. He can shoot threes, he can drive to the basket, he can get his teammates involved, and he’s a superb defender. He will have the difficult task of trying to guard Harden, who draws fouls incredibly well, can shoot threes, can distribute the ball, and score in various ways. Harden is hard to stop, so Thompson will have to find a way to limit the damage. On the other side of the ball, Harden is a poor defender, so Thompson needs to contribute significantly on the offensive end.
Stephen Curry vs. Patrick Beverley (if he returns during the series): It’s unclear yet if Beverley will be able to return during this series, but if he is able to play in some games, his defense on Curry will be key. Beverley is the Rockets’ defensive ace and their only real chance of disrupting Curry on offense, besides possibly Ariza. If Beverley isn’t able to return during this series, Curry could put on a show offensively in each game.
Harrison Barnes vs. Trevor Ariza: These two players aren’t the stars on their team, but they both play significant roles. Ariza is their go-to perimeter defender. Like Barnes, he is long, athletic, and can stretch the floor to shoot threes. When Barnes is aggressive, he becomes a key third scorer for the Warriors behind the Splash Brothers. In addition, Barnes tends to play more aggressively and contribute more in the playoffs. It’s unclear if these two will guard each other or if the Rockets will put Ariza on Curry with Beverley out, but these players are x-factors for their respective teams.
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