The Warriors took a 2-1 series lead over Memphis with a 142-112 blowout win in Game 3 of the Western Conference semifinals.
The Grizzlies started the game in blistering fashion, with their first 18 points all coming from 3-point range. After the early troubles, the Warriors turned the tides and suddenly couldn’t miss. Shooting over 70 percent in the first half and 63.1 percent for the game, along with making 53.1 percent of their 3-pointers. They also dominated on the glass like they did in the first two games of this series.
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Key Performers
Steph Curry led the way for the Warriors with 30 points, followed closely by Jordan Poole with 27 off the bench. Klay Thompson scored 21 points and Andrew Wiggins chipped in with 17. The Warriors had a few unnecessary turnovers in the first half but cleaned that up in the second. They turned the ball over just twice in the third quarter and led by 21 points going into the fourth.
With Gary Payton II sidelined for the remainder of the second round and beyond, Steve Kerr needed to find a replacement. He opted to go with Jonathan Kuminga and that meant he became the youngest player in NBA history to start a playoff game since 1970-71. Kuminga struggled a bit in the first quarter but got better and better.
Klay Back In Rhythm
Klay had been quite underwhelming through the first two games against Memphis. He averaged 13.5 points in the first two games, shooting 28.9 percent from the field and 22.7 percent from deep. However, he was under better control and wasn’t forcing shots like he did at FedExForum.
Over 35 minutes played, Klay scored his 21 points by going 8 of 13 overall and 4 of 6 from long distances. He also added nine rebounds and four assists. He was crucial on both ends of the floor to help the Warriors gain a huge advantage.
