Buddy Hield delivered a season-best 28 points, draining seven three-pointers as the Golden State Warriors (3-1) rallied from an early 20-point deficit to defeat the New Orleans Pelicans (2-2) 124-106. The Warriors, shorthanded without starters Stephen Curry and Andrew Wiggins, showcased resilience with Hield leading the charge and a key contribution from Brandin Podziemski, who scored 19 points.
Podziemski ignited the Warriors’ comeback in the third quarter, hitting a crucial three-pointer with 8:22 remaining to tie the game before scoring again on the following possession. His performance helped Golden State gain a 71-67 lead, which they maintained throughout the second half.
New Orleans saw standout performances from Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, scoring 31 and 30 points, respectively. Williamson shot 12-for-20 from the field, and Ingram added a solid 30-point game, but their efforts were not enough to counter Golden State’s relentless defense and efficient shooting.
Jonathan Kuminga and Lindy Waters III contributed 17 and 21 points off the bench, respectively, showcasing depth as the Warriors adjusted to the absence of Curry, who is sidelined with a left ankle sprain.
The Warriors defense played a crucial role in the comeback, forcing New Orleans into 24 turnovers and converting those into 34 points. Golden State also limited its turnovers to just eight after committing 21 in their previous game against the Clippers, maintaining better control of the ball as they built momentum.
Despite a slow start, where Golden State made only five of its first 23 shots, Hield found his rhythm, finishing 7-for-13 from beyond the arc. This marked a turnaround after his disappointing home debut, where he shot just 1-for-9 from deep.
Golden State’s defense excelled in the second half, holding the Pelicans to 42 points after allowing 64 points in the first two quarters. The Warriors’ defense adjusted effectively, utilizing their smaller lineup to counter New Orleans’ inside threat while capitalizing on fast breaks.
