Warriors defense sparks offense

For the first time in 20 years, the Golden State Warriors have started the season 5-0. And the scariest fact is that they're winning while playing what they admit isn't their best ball. Even as they're lighting up the scoreboard, the Dubs are committing more than 20 turnovers per game. New Coach Steve Kerr said, "I don't know how we're 5-0 the way we just toss the ball around. It's bizarre but we're 5-0 so that's good. We like that part."

Saturday night against the previously undefeated Houston Rockets, Golden State used defense to outlast the home team 98-87. After a shaky and uncharacteristic first half, the Warriors took over in the third quarter with Stephen Curry leading the way. Curry finished with 34 points, 10 rebounds and five assist with 6 of 9 from three point range. If Curry was the scoring spark, Andrew Bogut dominated in the paint with a season high 18 rebounds and four drive crushing blocks that shut down the Houston offense. The Rockets were also hurt by illness. Dwight Howard suffering from the flu was unable to suit up, as were Terrence Jones and Patrick Beverley. All Star James Harden felt the pressure all night scoring just 22 points on 7 of 24 shooting.  If this was an ugly win, Kerr will take it because it's proof that his team is doing what they need to do to win, even without their own superstar, injured starting forward David Lee. Warriors' fans appear thrilled to climb on the winning bandwagon. There's a sense of wonder and hope in the quick start under this fresh leadership.  While Curry, Bogut and Klay Thompson garner much of the headlines, this team is already clicking with chemistry; getting contributions from almost everyone. Aside from Curry, four other Warriors recorded double figures in Houston. Andre Iguodala came off the bench for a critical 15 points, Draymond Green added 14 and Thompson who picked up three quick fouls and had an off shooting night finished with 11. On defense is where Kerr's  team is making its early mark.
"You could see the fatigue in their legs in the second half because our guys were all over the shooters," said Kerr. " Defense was terrific and I'll stop right there."
Curry described the victory as a character win, but perhaps Green summed it up best when he noted it's early, but they're definitely enjoying the ride.  "Winning is always fun," said Green. "Obviously we're not looking at it thinking we're the best thing since sliced bread. It's a long season. We're five games in. But winning is fun. It's a great feeling, so we want to continue to win and continue to do the things necessary to win. I think we have a good enough team to continue to do that. Obviously we don't think were going to go 82-0, but just try to win as many games as we can and continue to get better."  Up next, the Suns in Phoenix Sunday at 5pm, hold on tight, it's bound to be another exciting ride.

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