The Golden State Warriors are the most dangerous team in the NBA at present, with a 12-match winning streak, and they will be keen to make that 13 as they prepare to face Houston Rockets on Thursday. Though the Warriors have been amazing, Rockets are also one of the massive teams in the NBA.
The match is expected to be a cracker as both the teams comprise some mega stars in their camps. If Warriors have Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Kevin Durant, Rockets are blessed with James Harden and Trevor Ariza.
The Warriors have been superb in the offensive end, scoring for fun. With Curry and Durant in roaring from, the Warriors have scored more than 100 points in all their matches barring their match against the Lakers, which they lost. Besides the duo, Thompson has also contributed significantly this season. When the trio starts drilling their shots, the opponents are always helpless.
Despite the trio being brilliant individual players, they do not mind playing the passing game, which makes them a great team. They always try to provide the ball to the players, who are free as it gives him a greater chance to make the basket. Coach Steve Kerr was all praise for Durant's unselfish trait.
"KD is always looking for other people. He's so unselfish, it's amazing to watch. Because he can get any shot he wants any time. But he's constantly trying to get everybody else involved, which is a great trait, especially for a superstar," The Mercury News quoted Kerr as saying.
The Warriors, despite possessing a strong offence, have to keep a close watch on Harden, who has looked in great shape this season, and have helped them win matches. Harden averages fifth in the current season, with 28.7 ppg and tops the assist chart with 11.9. All these stats prove Harden's influence in Rockets's performance this season.
The Rockets currently lie on fourth place in the western conference with 11 wins. Harden will be the goto man for Rockets, but Ariza has to support him if they are to emerge victorious.
Harden, when he comes to big matches like these, is aware of the fact that his team mates look for an inspirational performance from him. He has, most of the times, taken his game to the next level, and will be required to do the same against the Warriors as well.
Where to Watch Live
Golden State Warriors vs Houston Rockets is set to begin at 10:30 pm ET ( 3:30 am GMT, 9 am IST next day). Live Streaming and TV guide for the NBA match is below.
India: TV: Sony Six and Sony Six HD. Live Streaming: Sonyliv.
USA: TV: TNT. Live Streaming: TNT Overtime.
Australia: TV: ESPN.
Canada: TV: Sportsnet.
International: NBA Online.