Without a shadow of doubt, the Golden State Warriors have already established themselves as the team to beat in the NBA this season. They have lost just twice so far and won 31 games, which is an incredible record considering the ever competitive nature of the NBA.
Even when the Warriors have been outplayed, they have shown strong character to win tight games. Their never-give-up attitude has made them an even more stronger NBA team. With such positive characteristics, the Golden State Warriors will be confident of beating the Charlotte Hornets at the Oracle Arena on Monday.
Golden State's home record is impeccable as they have a perfect record, and they will be eager to maintain that run on Monday as well. The Charlotte Hornets, who are currently in a downward slump with three straight losses, have a tough task against the Golden State Warriors.
The Hornets need their star players to deliver against the Warriors, but one wonders if the likes of Nicolas Batum and Kemba Walker, who average 16.3 points per game (ppg) and 19.2 ppg respectively, can hand Warriors their first home defeat. Stephen Curry, who has been the best player in the league, injured his leg against the Denver Nuggets and his participation for the game is doubtful.
''I just re-injured the same thing, so I'll be all right,'' AP quoted Curry as saying. ''I know exactly what it is. Whenever you hurt something and you try to play through a little bit of discomfort and just get out there, it's usually a magnet for something to happen.''
Irrespective of whether Curry plays or not, they have enough firepower to maintain their home record. With players such as Draymond Green and Klay Thompson, the Golden State Warriors should not have much trouble in defeating the Charlotte Hornets.
The Hornets' problem primarily lies in their defence, as they have been letting in too many easy points on the drive, as well as beyond the arc. In their last three losses, they have allowed the teams to score more than 100 points, which reflects their below par defencsive performance.
Hornets coach Steve Clifford wants to see a better defensive display against Golden State. "Obviously we're missing some guys but our energy level is good but it's just our defense and our rebounding," Clifford said. "When we start to get our defense going again, then we'll win again."
Where to watch live
Golden State Warriors vs Charlotte Hornets NBA game is scheduled for 10:30pm ET (9am IST, 11:30am Philippines). Sony Six will provide live coverage of the Golden State Warriors vs Charlotte Hornets NBA game in India. Sonyliv will provide the live streaming option in India.
Viewers in Philippines can watch the game live on NBA Premium.
There will be no live coverage of the game in the US on national TV.
Viewers around the world, including those in India and the US, can watch all the NBA live action by live streaming on NBA Online.
