The Warriors have won five straight after an ugly 0-3 start, and there is good reason to believe that streak continues during Thursday night’s NBA action against the struggling Heat.
Stephen Curry looks like he has turned back the clock thanks to some help from a surprising source.
The 38-year-old has scored at least 30 points in three consecutive appearances, including 34 in Monday’s win over Phoenix.
But the biggest development for Golden State might be the emergence of No. 11 overall pick Yaxel Lendeborg.
The rookie dropped 37 points and hit six 3-pointers against the Clippers on Sunday, giving the Warriors a legitimate second scoring threat and making the offense far less dependent on Curry creating everything.
The schedule only strengthens the Warriors’ chances.
Golden State hasn’t played since Monday and will have had two full days to rest and prepare at home.
The Heat, meanwhile, beat the Clippers 117-116 in overtime in Los Angeles on Wednesday night, then quickly made the trip north for the second half of a back-to-back.
It will also be the Heat’s third game in four nights.
That’s troubling news for a Heat team that has stumbled to a 3-5 start despite the addition of Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Betting on the NBA?
Miami suffered a 21-point loss to the Lakers on Monday, and even 30-point, 12-rebound night from the Greek Freak wasn’t nearly enough to stay competitive.
Golden State has questions on the defensive side of the ball against this big Heat lineup, but its recent form and fresh legs make it the more trustworthy side.
The play: Warriors -7.5 (-106, DraftKings)
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Dylan Svoboda is a versatile writer and analyst across many sports. He’s particularly knowledgeable about the big three — MLB, the NFL and the NBA.
