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The Golden State Warriors went on a 35-0 run to pull ahead in a 110-83 preseason victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday night, and young stars Klay Thompson and Harrison Barnes played major roles. Thompson finished with 18 points on 7/11 shooting, while Barnes scored 13 in 24 minutes.
Both showed the ability to drive the lane, something they haven't done much in the past. Thompson said he has been working in the offseason to improve that aspect of his game, according to CSN Bay Area:
Would Thompson have done that a year ago?
"Not as effectively, no," he answered. "But I’ve gotten stronger, worked on my quickness. I would have tried but I wouldn’t have gotten those results."
Thompson was selected with the 11th overall pick a season ago, and showed off his scoring ability as a rookie. The shooting guard out of Washington State knocked down 41 percent of his threes last year. The ability to drive will only lead to more open looks for Thompson, and make him much tougher to defend.
The Warriors are hoping to get the same rookie-season production from Barnes, the team's 2012 lottery pick. If the first preseason game is any indication, it may be two-straight solid drafts for the franchise.