The Golden State Warriors lost Game 3 of their Western Conference series against the Los Angeles Lakers in a matter of minutes. Although the Warriors built an 11-point lead through the first quarter and a half, they let it slip away in the final five minutes of the second quarter. The Lakers closed the first half on a 30-8 run and scored nearly double the number of points the Warriors would have the rest of the game, leading to their 127-97 win on Saturday. The Warriors have suffered multiple defeats this season due to a three or six-minute stretch where the whole tone of the game changes.
The Causes of Warriors’ Loss
The Warriors’ performance in Game 3 was similar to their loss in Game 1. They let the Lakers attempt 37 free throws to their 17 and committed 19 turnovers for 27 points. They also shot 13-of-44 from 3. Moreover, much of what hurt the Warriors on Saturday were self-inflicted issues. When the Lakers went on their run in the second quarter, Warriors coach Steve Kerr said his team lost its composure, playing into the Lakers’ hands.
Warriors’ Response to the Defeat
Despite being down in the series, the Warriors aren’t panicking. Two of the three games played have been decided by more than 20 points. With two teams that play such different styles, the Warriors have faith they can assert their dominance on the Lakers once again. Warriors guard Klay Thompson said, “As ugly as this was tonight, we have another opportunity on Monday. There’s no point to dwell on it … we’ve been through more adversity than a 2-1 deficit. We know how to respond.” Although the Lakers took advantage of the Warriors’ mistakes, the Warriors are confident in their ability to figure things out and overcome their unfortunate situation.
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