The Golden State Warriors had to make do without a point guard, as Stephen Curry continues to struggle with ankle issues. So why not use Monta Ellis and let him handle the ball a bit.
Ellis was four of 15 from the field in the first half, but then scored eight crucial points to break open a fairly tight contest between the Warriors and the New York Knicks. Golden State outscored New York 28-14 in the fourth quarter to break a 64-64 tie after three quarter and move onto victory. Brandon Rush had 19 points, six rebounds, two steals and two blocks, Ish Smith put in 11 points, six rebounds, four assists and two steals, and David Lee had 13 points and five boards.
What was probably most impressive for the Warriors was how good Golden State looked on defense. The Warriors decisively won the rebounding battle over New York 47-31. Golden State held Carmelo Anthony to 13 points on three of 13 shooting and Amare Stoudemire to 16 points on five of 14 shooting. It was a great all-around effort by the Warriors, who can cap off a solid week by beating the Philadelphia Sixers on New Year's Eve.
To discuss the Warriors, head on over to Golden State of Mind. To discuss the Knicks, check out Posting and Toasting.