NEW ORLEANS _Stephen Curry no longer faced a minutes restrictions or a bench role, but the Warriors' defensive intensity let up in a 119-100 Game 3 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans in the Western Conference semifinals on Friday.
In what marked his second game since sitting the past 5{ weeks with a Grade 2 MCL sprain in his left knee, Curry returned to the starting lineup without a minutes restriction. Yet, the normally proficient Curry scored 19 points while shooting only 6 of 19 from the field and 3 of 9 from 3-point range.
Kevin Durant had a team-leading 22 points, while going 8-for-18 from the field and 5-for-6 from the free-throw line. Yet, that could not overshadow one development. Durant continued his postseason struggles from 3-point range (1 of 6). Klay Thompson finished with 26 points on 9 of 22 shooting, a somewhat respectable line after missing his first four shots. But Thompson could not overcome a scoreless first quarter.
And after shutting down opponents this postseason with their hustle and intimidation, the Warriors' defense did not account for many spots on the floor. The Pelicans enjoyed a layup line en route to Anthony Davis (33 points) and Nikola Mirotic (16) attacking the basket with ease. New Orleans also had open space on the perimeter, going 14-for-30 from 3-point range.
As a result, the Pelicans reduced the Warriors' lead to 2-1 with a chance to tie the series in Game 4 on Sunday. The game became so lopsided that Warriors coach Steve Kerr emptied the bench his team trailed, 114-89, with 4:59 left.
Jrue Holida added 21 points for the Pelicans, and Rajon Rondo had four points, 21 assists and 10 rebounds.
Draymond Green recorded 11 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists for the Warriors.
