Play-In Rematch Set: Warriors Fall to Clippers as Curry Returns for Finale
Play-In Rematch Set: Warriors Fall to Clippers as Curry Returns for Finale
In a preview of Wednesday's high-stakes elimination game, the LA Clippers defeated the Golden State Warriors 115-110 to conclude the regular season. The victory secured the No. 9 seed for the Clippers, meaning they will host the No. 10 seed Warriors in the opening round of the Western Conference Play-In Tournament. Despite the loss, the Warriors received a significant boost with the return of Stephen Curry, who looked sharp in limited minutes as he prepares for the postseason gauntlet.
The Clippers' bench was the deciding factor in the finale, outscoring the Warriors' reserves 71-56. Bennedict Mathurin was the star for Los Angeles, tallying 20 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists in a versatile performance off the bench. John Collins added 18 points, helping the Clippers navigate the absence of Kawhi Leonard, who sat out to rest minor injuries. For the Warriors, Curry led the way with 24 points on 4-of-9 shooting from deep, while Kristaps Porzingis continued to acclimate to the Golden State system after a recent illness.
Curry and Porzingis: A Developing Duo
One of the most intriguing storylines for the Warriors heading into the play-in is the chemistry between Stephen Curry and Kristaps Porzingis. Coach Steve Kerr used the season finale to test various lineups featuring the two stars alongside Brandin Podziemski and De'Anthony Melton. Porzingis, who started at center, provided a floor-spacing element that opened lanes for Curry's signature movement. Although the Warriors fell short, the pairing showed flashes of brilliance that could make them a dangerous sleeper if they survive the play-in tournament.
Clippers’ Resilience: From 6-21 to the Postseason
The Clippers' journey to the ninth seed is nothing short of a miracle. After starting the season with a dismal 6-21 record, they rallied to finish above .500 for the 15th consecutive season—the longest active streak in the NBA. Bennedict Mathurin and Bogdan Bogdanovic have been pivotal in this turnaround, providing scoring punch and veteran leadership. The Clippers have also dominated the head-to-head series at the Intuit Dome, winning nine straight home games against the Warriors, a trend they hope to continue on Wednesday night.
The Stakes of the 9-10 Matchup
Wednesday’s play-in game is a win-or-go-home scenario. The winner will advance to play the loser of the 7-8 matchup (Suns vs. Trail Blazers) for the final playoff spot in the West. For the Warriors, it’s a chance to keep their championship window open behind Curry’s heroics. For the Clippers, it’s a validation of their mid-season turnaround. With Draymond Green expected to return from a back injury for Golden State, the intensity in Inglewood is expected to be at a fever pitch.
