The team with the best record in the NBA makes their way to Charlotte hoping to extend their winning streak.
Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors, victors of seven straight games, will put their 11-1 record on the line as they take on the Charlotte Hornets, 7:00 AM on NBA TV Philippines via the new Smart GigaPlay app or Cignal TV.
Even the most hopeful probably wouldn't have predicted the incredible start by the Warriors. For one, they are still without star Klay Thompson in the lineup. And without a major offseason upgrade, many were skeptical about how effective they will compete in the West. Nonetheless, early concerns have been put to rest with how Curry and the Warriors are dismantling opponents.
The Warriors are coming off a statement win over the Chicago Bulls where Curry dropped 40 points, including nine triples. The game served as a litmus test given that the revamped Bulls have been on a tear of their own in the East. It was also a historic night for Curry after he surpassed Ray Allen for the most 3-pointers made in league history. After a dominant 119-93 victory, the Warriors remain the hottest squad in the association.
On the other hand, the 7-7 Hornets have had their shares of ups and downs early in the season. They were on a tailspin not too long ago, losing five straight contests, including a heartbreaking overtime loss against the Los Angeles Lakers. Fortunately, they've won back-to-back games, scoring impressive victories over the Memphis Grizzlies and most recently the New York Knicks, where they rallied from a 16-point first half deficit.
Monday’s matchup will also be a homecoming for Curry who hails from Charlotte. The son of former Hornet Dell Curry has been nothing short of spectacular this season. Now in his 13th year, he is producing MVP numbers, averaging 28.4 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 6.4 assists. He has scored at least 40 points three times already this season, including a 50-point onslaught earlier this week versus the Atlanta Hawks.
The last time the Warriors and Hornets squared off, however, it wasn't Curry who stole the show but Jordan Poole. The 22-year-old netted 31 points in a 114-92 win last Nov. 4 (PHT). Poole has so far filled the very big void left by Thompson to the best of his abilities, providing timely scoring for the Warriors. The Hornets trailed by as many as 22 points in the loss, surrendering 48.8 percent field goal shooting to Poole and company. If Charlotte is to avenge its earlier defeat, it has to find a way to slow down the fiery shot-making capabilities of Golden State.
Can the Warriors keep their hot streak going or will the Hornets nab a huge upset over the best team in the league?
