After a dominant Game 1, the Golden State Warriors look to continue their perfect playoff record in Game 2 against the visiting Utah Jazz, who will be shorthanded tonight. Led by Stephen Curry, The Warriors blew out the Jazz after a strong second half. Even without their head coach Steve Kerr, Golden State continues to play at a high level, and Utah must find answers right away.
Injury report
As mentioned above, the Jazz will be shorthanded for Game 2. Starting point guard George Hill is going to be out due to a sore toe, an injury that has bothered him all year long.
Without Hill, the Jazz lose one of their veteran pieces that has been a major part to their success this year. In his absence, Shelvin Mack is likely to earn the starting role. Alec Burks will also continue to sit due to a knee injury.
For the Warriors, everyone except for Kevon Looney (hip) is healthy. Stephen Curry suffered a minor ankle injury in Game 2, but he is fully expected to play. Meanwhile, Matt Barnes and Shaun Livingston are officially off Golden State’s injury list.
Stopping Golden State’s offense
The Jazz may have one of the best defenses in the league, but how do you stop Golden State’s amazing offense? The Warriors had 32 assists on 40 made baskets in Game 1, as they were moving the ball around flawlessly and finding quality shots.
It’s interesting because the Jazz protected the three-point line but were unable to stop the Warriors on the inside. It’s almost as if they have to pick their poise, which is a lose-lose situation. Utah’s best bet is to be physical with Curry off screens and pack the paint.
Warriors will shoot much better from three-point distance
After going 7-of-29 for 24.1 percent in the first game from three-point distance, expect the Warriors to improve their three-point shooting in the second game. They are too deadly from the arc to have another off night, and once they get going, it’s going to be tougher to stop them.
Rebounding will be key for Utah
In Game 1, the Jazz out-rebounded the Warriors, 44-37. However, they need to completely dominate Golden State in that area to have a chance. They must crash the offensive glass to gain extra opportunities and must corral defensive rebounds to make it one-and-done. The Jazz will give themselves a fighting chance if they absolutely control the rebounding.
It’s going to be tough for Utah to steal a game at the Oracle Arena especially without George Hill. They must be clicking on all cylinders to have a chance, but it’s difficult overthrowing the Warriors on their home court being shorthanded. Game 2 will be televised on TNT at 10:30 pm Eastern Time.
