PHOENIX -- The Warriors have found a variety of ways to lose over the last month. On Saturday, they finally figured out how to win convincingly, beating the Suns 115-99 at Talking Stick Resort Arena.
In a game the Warriors had just eight healthy bodies, they ended an eight-game losing streak, holding the Suns to just 41 percent from the field in one of Golden State's most impressive wins of the season.
The win marked the Warriors' first win in 26 days, evening the season series against the Suns at 2-2. Damion Lee scored 20 points and dished out a career-high eight assists and the Warriors' undermanned bench outscored Phoenix's second unit 49-26 on the evening.
Here are the takeaways:
Eric Paschall regains rookie magic
In a game marked by redemption, Paschall shined, finishing with 25 points, four assists and three rebounds in 32 minutes, helping the Warriors stay within reach much of the night.
Paschall got going in the second quarter, scoring 12 points, helping the Warriors cut an 18-point deficit to four by halftime. With Draymond Green, Jordan Poole and Ky Bowman out due to injuries, the rookie was forced to carry the offensive burden for much of the evening.
Saturday's performance was on brand considering Paschall's play of late. Entering the matchup, he averaged nearly 15 points per game on 58 percent from the field, shedding his rookie-season struggles from earlier this year. Paschall continues to prove his worth despite the Warriors' trying year in a role that will only blossom when the team is at full strength.
Dragan revenge game?
Bender has had a few low moments in Phoenix during his short career. But he exorcised some demons on Saturday night, finishing with 13 points, including three 3-pointers. Bender's five points in the third quarter helped the Warriors take an 11-point lead into the fourth quarter.
The location of Bender's outburst is noteworthy. The seven-footer spent his first three seasons in Phoenix, never averaging more than six points per game despite being the No. 4 overall draft pick in 2016. Along the way, he garnered a "bust" label.
In theory, he brings a style of play the Warriors like: a tall floor-spacer who can pass. But to play beyond his current 10-day contract, he'll have to build on his play against the Suns.
Loon finds his game
Kevon Looney has struggled through much of the season as injuries have hindered his production. He began to turn the tide Saturday, scoring 10 points, adding six rebounds in 15 minutes.
In the process, Looney showed every bit of what made him a "foundational piece" during Golden State's championship runs. During the third quarter, he spun in the lane before finishing over two Suns defenders, giving the Warriors a 12-point lead.
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Throughout the season, Looney has dealt with a variety of injuries, including a neuropathic condition that sidelined him all of training camp. If Looney can build on Saturday's performance, it'll be a positive sign heading into next season when the Warriors expect to contend for an NBA title once again.
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March 01, 2020 at 01:49PM
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How Paschall broke through rookie wall, found his rhythm - NBCSports.com
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