Stephen Ellison

Rockets Stun Warriors in 2017 Season Opener

OAKLAND -- After picking up their second championship rings in three seasons, the Warriors took the Oracle Arena court Tuesday night hoping to grab a win.

The Houston Rockets did not play along, riding a fourth-quarter comeback to a 122-121 victory over the defending champions in the season opener.

Four players scored in double figures, led by Nick Young’s 23 points off the bench. Stephen Curry tossed in 22, Kevin Durant’s 20 and Klay Thompson 16.

The losses of Andre Iguodala before the game and Draymond Green after the third quarter were too much for the Warriors to overcome.

Green left with a knee injury after totaling 9 points, a team-high 11 rebounds and a team-high 13 assists in 28 minutes.

STANDOUT PERFORMER: The Warriors were unimpressed with Young’s conditioning at the start of training camp, but surely loved his shooting touch in his debut.

Young’s line: 23 points (8-of-9 shooting, 6-of-7 beyond the arc, 1-of-1 at the line) and one rebound.

Young was signed to provide scoring off the bench, specifically 3-point shooting. He nailed it in his first game as a Warrior.

TURNING POINT: With the Warriors taking a 13-point lead into the fourth quarter and leading 116-109 with 4:14 to play, the Rockets closed the game on a 13-5.

INJURY UPDATE: Warriors: F Draymond Green sustained a left knee strain late in the third quarter and left the game for good. F Omri Casspi (R ankle sprain) was listed as probable and was available to play. F Andre Iguodala (back strain) was listed as questionable and ruled out prior to tipoff.

Rockets: No injuries listed.

WHAT’S NEXT: The Warriors return to action Friday night in New Orleans, where they face the Pelicans at Smoothie King Center. Tipoff is scheduled for 6:35 PDT.

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