OAKLAND – The last time the Warriors faced the Suns, Draymond Green took note of the rugged tactics employed by Phoenix in that Oct. 30 game at Talking Stick Resort Arena.
This time, the Suns will be on Warriors turf, and Green, as is his nature, will be out to bring as much passion and force as possible in hopes of pulling his teammates along for the ride Sunday (5 p.m.) at Oracle Arena.
The Warriors (7-2) responded to a wake-up-call loss to the Lakers on Nov. 4 by winning three consecutive games, over a four-day span. They’ll be trying to tie their season-best four-game win streak.
The Suns (3-7) are coming off a 122-104 loss to Brooklyn on Saturday in Arizona.
BETTING LINE:
Warriors by 16
MATCHUP TO WATCH:
Stephen Curry vs. Eric Bledsoe: Built like a cornerback, Bledsoe may be the most physical point guard in the NBA. He uses that muscle on Curry, who counters with savvy and perseverance. If Curry wins the battle, the Warriors likely win the game.
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INJURY REPORT:
Warriors: C Damian Jones (R pectoral surgery recovery) is listed as out.
Suns: C Tyson Chandler (bereavement) is not expected to play.
SERIES HISTORY:
The Warriors have won eight in a row and 16 of the last 19 overall. They have won nine straight in Oakland, with the last loss coming on Feb. 7, 2011.
THREE THINGS TO WATCH:
Hot Curry. Since shooting 0-of-10 beyond the arc in a Nov. 4 loss to the Lakers, Curry has gone on a tear. He’s 24-of-38 from deep over the past three games, including an NBA-record 13 in one game. Can he keep it going?
Paint pounding. The Warriors were outscored 44-28 in the paint in the Oct. 30 game in Phoenix. It was among the least effective games of the season by center Zaza Pachulia. He should be better this time. If not, prepare for more of JaVale McGee.
Solar energy. The Suns are on the second night of a back-to-back set for the third time this season. They’re 1-1 under those circumstances. Expect their fatigue level to be tested by a Warriors team sure to push at every opportunity.
