The Golden State Warriors continued their dominant preseason run with a convincing 111-97 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on October 16th, extending their streak to five straight wins. It was a night where Stephen Curry outshined LeBron James, scoring 16 points and hitting three three-pointers, while LeBron could only manage six points. Despite Anthony Davis‘ strong performance for the Lakers, scoring a game-high 24 points, the Warriors had control of the game from start to finish.
First Quarter: Warriors’ Hot Start
The game opened with the Warriors displaying red-hot shooting from the field. They went 12-for-20 in the first quarter, hitting a sizzling 60% of their shots and taking a narrow 31-28 lead over the Lakers. Despite this, Anthony Davis was the standout player, scoring 11 points on 4-for-8 shooting to keep the Lakers within striking distance.
Second Quarter: Warriors Build Momentum
The second quarter saw the Warriors continue to outplay the Lakers. While the Lakers struggled, shooting just 39% (9-for-23) from the field, the Warriors capitalized by shooting 38% (12-for-32). Curry led the charge with 11 first-half points, while Jonathan Kuminga added 10 of his own. By halftime, the Warriors held a 58-51 lead, with Austin Reaves contributing 13 points for the Lakers and Davis leading all scorers with 16.
Third Quarter: Warriors Stretch the Lead
Coming out of halftime, the Warriors’ defense clamped down on the Lakers, allowing them to stretch their lead even further. The Lakers shot 28% from the field in the third quarter (7-for-25), while the Warriors maintained their momentum, going 10-for-23. As the game entered the fourth quarter, the Warriors had built a commanding 83-70 lead, giving them a comfortable double-digit cushion.
Fourth Quarter: Lakers’ Rally Falls Short
Despite a valiant effort from the Lakers in the fourth quarter, where they narrowly outscored the Warriors 28-27, it was too little, too late. The Warriors sealed the game with strong contributions from their bench. Moses Moody, who came off the bench, had an outstanding performance, leading the Warriors with 21 points and hitting five three-pointers. Curry continued to orchestrate the offense with 16 points and six assists, helping his team secure the 111-97 victory.
Warriors’ Depth Shines, Lakers Struggle Despite Davis’ Efforts
The Warriors had an impressive showing, with eight players scoring in double figures. The depth of the team was on full display, as even without standout performances from their stars, their bench made a huge impact. Moody’s 21 points were a game-changer, while Curry’s consistent play and Kuminga’s 10 points gave them the edge they needed.
For the Lakers, Anthony Davis led the way with a 24-point, 12-rebound double-double, showing his usual dominance. Newcomer Dalton Knecht also impressed, hitting five three-pointers and contributing 15 points, while Austin Reaves added 13. However, LeBron James had an unusually quiet game, scoring just six points in limited minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Warriors’ Team Depth: The Warriors once again showed their depth, with multiple players stepping up, especially from the bench. Moody’s 21 points and five three-pointers were crucial in maintaining the Warriors’ lead.
- Curry’s Quiet Leadership: Although Curry didn’t have an explosive game, his 16 points and 6 assists were pivotal. His ability to dictate the flow of the game continues to be the cornerstone of the Warriors’ success.
- Lakers’ Offensive Struggles: Despite Davis’ stellar night, the Lakers struggled offensively, shooting just 41% overall and failing to match the Warriors’ intensity. LeBron’s quiet night highlighted the need for the Lakers’ other stars to step up if they want to compete with the league’s elite.
- Defense Wins Games: The Warriors’ defense was a standout, holding the Lakers to just 97 points, including forcing tough shots from the perimeter and controlling the glass when it mattered most.
FAQs
Stephen Curry scored 16 points, hit three three-pointers, and added 6 assists, helping the Warriors secure their 111-97 win over the Lakers.
Anthony Davis led all scorers with 24 points and 12 rebounds, but his efforts were not enough to lift the Lakers past the Warriors.
LeBron James had an unusually quiet game, scoring only 6 points in limited minutes.
Moses Moody was the top scorer for the Warriors, coming off the bench to score 21 points, including five three-pointers.
With this win, the Warriors improved to 5-0 in the preseason, maintaining an unbeaten record.
Conclusion
The Warriors’ 111-97 victory over the Lakers not only extended their unbeaten streak in the preseason but also demonstrated the team’s remarkable depth and defensive prowess. While Curry played a pivotal role in orchestrating the offense, the contributions from the bench, especially Moses Moody’s standout performance, were crucial in securing the win. On the Lakers’ side, Anthony Davis showed his usual brilliance, but the team’s overall struggles and LeBron James’ quiet game highlighted areas they need to address moving forward.
With the preseason nearing its end, both teams will look to fine-tune their rosters and strategies as they prepare for the regular season. The Warriors, brimming with confidence, seem well-equipped for another competitive campaign, while the Lakers will need to find a more consistent rhythm if they hope to challenge for a title this season.
