The New Jersey Nets kick off a four-game West Coast swing Friday night when they take on the Golden State Warriors at the Oracle Arena.
While heading on these trips is usually difficult for struggling teams like the Nets, there is only one matchup — Tuesday against the Los Angeles Lakers — New Jersey will find themselves as heavy underdogs. The Warriors are in full-on tank mode as they try to hold onto their first round pick that is owned by the Utah Jazz, but top 7 protected.
On top of trading away star Monta Ellis, the Warriors have dropped eight of 10, including a 102-87 setback to the New Orleans Hornets Wednesday night. Former New York Knicks forward David Lee led the Warriors with 28 points while rookie Klay Thompson added 13.
The Nets will bring to Oakland the momentum from a 100-84 victory over the playoff-bound Indiana Pacers. Deron Williams scored a game-high 30 points and handed out nine assists and rookie MarShon Brooks had 17.
Despite the victory, New Jersey continued piling up the injuries. Both Shelden Williams (eye) and Jordan Williams (concussion symptoms) left the win over the Pacers and Shelden did not make the trip with his teammates.
Golden State can relate to the injury problems. The Warriors will be without Andrew Bogut, Stephen Curry and Andris Biedrins.
You can watch the game locally on YES or listen on WFAN 660 with tip scheduled for 10:30 p.m.
The Nets road trip will continue Saturday night when they head to Sacramento to take on the Kings.