The Golden State Warriors improved on their historic start, moving to a NBA best 17-0 with a 135-116 win over the Phoenix Suns on Friday night. Here are three things we learned from the game:
3) Draymond Green is quietly having an All-Star season
Stephen Curry might get most of the spotlight - and rightfully so - but Draymond Green is also having one of the best seasons in the league. He recorded his second triple-double of the year, racking up 14 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists on just four shots. His efficiency is at an all-time high, and he has just as big of an impact on the Warriors as anyone.
2) Phoenix's defense needs a LOT of work
The Suns signed center Tyson Chandler this offseason to help improve their defense, but it's clear this team needs to improve a lot on that side of the ball. Friday's loss marked the third time in four games that Phoenix has given up at least 120 points - in fact, they've only held an opponent to under 100 points five times in 16 games, an astonishingly low number. For the Suns to reach their goal of making the playoffs, they have got to improve defensively.
1) Golden State's slow starts are a thing of the past
The Warriors had gotten into the bad habit of falling behind early in games, forcing themselves to pull off double-digit comebacks, which they were obviously able to do. However, that was not the case in this one as Golden State led 44-27 after the first quarter and 75-57 at the half, turning this one into a blowout right from the start. Some Warriors players have admitted to getting bored at times on the court, but starting strong shows an increased level of focus.