NBA Game Recap: Five Notable Players from the Warriors' Blowout Loss

After suffering a demoralizing 102-78 loss to the Indiana Pacers, it's hard for the Warriors to find anything to be proud of. It's also hard to find any one player to put the blame on. What is possible, however, is finding five players who stood out.

Whether for positive or negative reasons, the following players made their mark on the game. While numerous players could be held accountable, no one stood out as much as these five.

5. Brandon Rush, Guard/Forward

Brandon Rush struggled at times, but overall he played a well-rounded game.

From breaking up an alley-oop attempt to scoring the basketball well against his former team, Rush found a way to contribute through all four quarters. If anyone deserves positive credit in this lopsided defeat, it's Rush.

4. Klay Thompson, Guard

While Thompson has begun to score the ball well, he showed just how weak he is in other areas.

Thompson was constantly out of position on defense, forcing his teammates to shift assignments and thus enabling the Pacers to find open looks. He shot the ball poorly and rarely appeared back in transition. His poor play was one of the main reasons Paul George contributed with such ease.

3. Ekpe Udoh, Forward

Udoh's play was one of the lone bright spots of the Warriors' dismal night. He attacked the basket with physicality, displayed a full arsenal of post moves and played excellent offense without the ball in his hands.

Udoh was active in setting picks and screens for his teammates, even displaying a mid-range game on a pick and pop. While it may be hard to find any sign of positivity in such a terrible loss, Udoh's upside is something to marvel at.

2. Monta Ellis, Guard

Monta Ellis started out hot, scoring big in the first quarter and hitting a clutch buzzer-beater to bring the Warriors within three. After that, he showed everyone why the heart and soul of the Warriors may be what is bringing them down.

When he was on the court, Ellis constantly dribbled out the shot clock and threw up shots without ever giving his teammates a chance to contribute. While the absence of Stephen Curry played a significant role in the Warriors' play, Ellis thoroughly destroyed any chance of developing a team rhythm.

While he's certainly had better nights, it's nights like this that makes me think the Warriors should consider trading their star guard. Rebuilding with a good player and a draft pick might not be a bad idea.

1. David Lee, Forward

For the second time this season, the Indiana Pacers have held David Lee in check.

On defense, Lee couldn't stop David West or Tyler Hansbrough from scoring the basketball. When he was on offense, Lee couldn't hold on to the basketball, committing five turnovers.

While trade talks are loud for Monta Ellis, the Warriors should consider trading the offensive-minded Lee for a more well-rounded player in the front court.