After blowing a massive lead in Game 2 of their opening-round series of the NBA Playoffs, the Golden State Warriors found themselves on edge.
They got past those nerves and blew out the Los Angeles Clippers 132-105 at the Staples Center on Thursday night, taking a 2-1 advantage in the series.
Kevin Durant led the way for the Warriors, scoring 38 points and collecting 7 assists and 4 rebounds in only 29 minutes on the court. It was a big step forward for the Warriors’ superstar after he appeared to be frustrated in Games 1 and 2 of the series.
Patrick Beverly, the Clippers’ pesky guard who’s been tasked with guarding Durant in the series, visibly annoyed the forward and caused him to pick up a technical in Game 1 in the series.
It goes without saying that Durant got the better of the matchup on Thursday night.
The Warriors roared out to a 41-22 lead after just one quarter of action and comfortably controlled the game all night, meaning that their biggest stars got some rest throughout the matchup.
Steph Curry only played 20 minutes in the game, but still managed to put up 21 points on only 11 shot attempts.
The Warriors now control the series with a 2-1 lead that’ll be tough for Los Angeles to overcome.
Game 4 of the series will take place at Staples Center on Sunday aftenroon.
