Warriors Obliterate Rockets in Game 3, 126-85, Take 2-1 Series Lead

The Golden State Warriors defeated the Houston Rockets, 126-85, in Game 3 of the
Western Conference Finals at Oracle Arena on Sunday. This was a dominating
victory for the Warriors, as they led by at least five points for the final
three quarters. In fact, a 10-0 run to start the second half really set the
tone, as Houston never got within a single-digit margin from there while never
getting the game within 20 points for the entirety of the fourth quarter.
Defense really carried Golden State, as they held Houston to 40 percent from the
field and 32 percent from three-point range while winning the turnover
differential, 19-8. In addition, the Warriors recorded 11 steals and seven
blocks while the Rockets had just three steals and five blocks. Golden State
ended up shooting 52 percent from the field, 41 percent from long range and 94
percent from the free-throw line. The Rockets (1-2) were led by James Harden, as
he tallied 20 points, five rebounds and nine assists. Chris Paul finished with
13 points, 10 rebounds, four assists and two blocks. Clint Capela totaled 13
points and eight rebounds. Eric Gordon was the only other Rocket in double
figures, as he led the bench with 11 points and two boards. The Warriors (2-1)
got a vintage performance out of Stephen Curry, as he accrued 35 points, and six
rebounds, with 26 of those points coming in the second half. Kevin Durant
collected 25 points, six rebounds and six assists. Draymond Green accumulated 10
points, 17 rebounds and six assists. Andre Iguodala amassed 10 points, three
rebounds, three assists and three steals. This marks Golden State’s
16th-straight playoff win at home, which set an NBA record. Houston set a
playoff record of their own, as this 41-point defeat was their worst in
franchise history. Golden State will look to take a commanding 3-1 series lead
when they host Houston in Game 4 on Tuesday.