OAKLAND – For a full two years, the Warriors fantasized and fetishized about this night. They analyzed and plotted and planned. They pinned their hopes on the probability they could bring it to life.
And now it’s here. Kevin Durant joining forces with Steph Curry, Draymond Green, Klay Thompson, Andre Iguodala and most of the core that only 16 months ago won an NBA championship.
In facing the San Antonio Spurs in the season opener Tuesday night at Oracle Arena, the Warriors raise the curtain on a new era of not only their organization but also the NBA itself.
The Spurs, though finally without Tim Duncan, are the NBA’s established elite. The Warriors are new wave. And about to get ever more cutting edge.
The league could not have scripted this any better unless the Cleveland Cavaliers were coming to Oracle.
BETTING LINE
Sports
Warriors by 9
MATCHUP TO WATCH
Stephen Curry vs. Tony Parker. No matter what Kawhi Leonard, LaMarcus Aldridge and newly acquired Pau Gasol can produce, it won’t generate much of advantage of Curry is roasting Parker. There was a time this was a marquee matchup. Curry now is primed to dictate the game.
INJURY REPORT
Warriors: C Damian Jones (R pectoral surgery) is listed as out.
Spurs: G Danny Green (L quad strain) is listed as out.
SERIES HISTORY
The Warriors last season won three of four, and have won four of the last six overall. Prior to that the Warriors had lost 21 of 23. San Antonio has lost three straight in Oakland.
THREE THINGS TO WATCH
1) It’s two great coaches and a clash of styles, with the Warriors operating best with a relatively small lineup that speeds up the pace and the Spurs built to play big and control tempo. Which team will be able to impose its will?
2) Durant’s debut is the most anticipated in Warriors history; yes, even more than that of Chris Webber in 1993. The excitement level in the building will be ultra-high. How long will it take for Durant and his teammates to settle into the game?
3) Will the Spurs know how to act if Tim Almighty Duncan is not on the court or the bench or anywhere on the roster?
