The last time the Warriors had a game decided by 15 points or more was Jan. 31 against Charlotte (127-96). Before that, Jan. 19 vs. Milwaukee (119-99). That’s not good considering they have played 10 below .500 teams in 2008 (not counting Sacramento, a rivalry game).
Since coach Don Nelson isn’t going to use his reserves to rest his players, then the Warriors need to take advantage of the scrubs on their schedule and register some routs. Because, assuredly, the key players - specifically Baron and Jackson - won’t have much left for March and April.
Tonight’s game against Philly, who is in the hunt for a playoff spot out East, is a great opportunity to get the starters some rest. Philly is athletic and young, but the Warriors are better. If they bring their A game, the Warriors win by 20 easy. Patrick O’Bryant and Marco Belinelli are logging 8-10 fourth-quarter minutes. If they jive around, as usual, Baron will put in another 40-minute night, further wearing the tread on his tires.
More than ever, the Warriors need to start putting these garbage teams away. After Sunday, they have a four-game road trip that features three scrubs: Atlanta, Charlotte and Miami. They need to win those games by a combined 60 points, saving their key players for a big game against Orlando. It may not be enough to just win. The Warriors need to start smashing on these less-than opponents. Jax and Baron especially can use a fourth quarter or two on the bench.