OAKLAND – The Warriors and Clippers accomplished one thing above all when they met last preseason at Staples Center: They wore out officials’ whistles, combining for eight technical fouls.
In, we repeat, a preseason game.
The Warriors don’t care to participate in such a show of machismo Tuesday night when the teams meet at Oracle Arena, the first time the home team has taken the floor there since losing Game 7 of the NBA Finals in June.
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This game, after all, represents Kevin Durant’s home debut as a Warrior. Then, too, the defending Western Conference champs are searching for court chemistry.
The Clippers also are trying to find their own mojo, adding a couple new pieces to the team, including popular former Warriors Marreese Speights and Dorell Wright.
That doesn’t guarantee peace, however, as the Clippers might be a bit salty having lost six in a row to the Warriors. And, yes, there is backup forward Paul Pierce, referring to the Clippers as a “super team,” and to shooting guard J.J. Redick as the “best 3-point shooter in the NBA.”
Fireworks aren’t certain. But it’s Warriors-Clippers, so there’s always a chance.
Golden State Warriors
PROBABLE STARTERS
Warriors: SF Kevin Durant, PF Draymond Green, C Zaza Pachulia, SG Klay Thompson, PG Stephen Curry.
Clippers: SF Luc Mbah a Moute, PF Blake Griffin, C DeAndre Jordan, SG J.J. Redick, PG Chris Paul.
INJURY REPORT
Warriors: F Kevon Looney (L groin strain) is listed as doubtful. C Damian Jones (R pectoral surgery) and G Elliot Williams (R knee surgery) are listed as out.
Clippers: No injuries listed.
QUOTABLE
“I didn’t know he had range like that. I’m not comparing their game, but I played with a guy like him before – it’s like a (New Orleans forward) Ryan Anderson, he wants to pick-and-pop and face-up.” – Clippers guard Austin Rivers on new LA teammate Mo Speights