The Warriors could've used some more production from Klay Thompson (12 points) whereas Andrew Wiggins (24 points) helped Golden State secure a controlling lead in the second half, leading by as much as 11. The Spurs would've probably fallen short under pressure, had it not been for Andre Drummond's stellar dominance on the glass (21 rebounds, 17 points, 3 blocks, 2 steals), as they found themselves fatigued and unable to hit their trademark shots from long range. Buddy Hield, Fred VanVleet & Otto Porter shot a combined 11-27 from 3PT distance, totaling 43 points. The Spurs were unable to increase their own 11-PT lead due to the cold shooting night.
Luckily, Murray & Ingram's ferocity toward the rim came through in the clutch. Good thing for it too, since they missed 6 crucial free throws overall with the game teetering late. Foul trouble late for Steph Curry helped Murray continue to be aggressive, forcing Kevon Looney to foul out (9 rebounds).
San Antonio was fortunate tonight, after a game that looked to be heading to a 1-1 split. Now, the champs can recuperate and seek a dominant 3-0 lead in this series, as the setting shifts to San Francisco at the Chase Center. "We definitely needed DJ [Murray] back," VanVleet was quoted after the tough win. "He just gives so much energy on both sides of the floor, it's inspiring to what we're trying to do."
