Warriors Keep Slim Playoff Hopes Alive with Crushing Win over Raptors

Yes, believe it or not, the Golden State Warriors do indeed have a mathematical chance to make the playoffs.  This is due to the Memphis Grizzlies losing tonight.

Yes, even after a terrible performance in the "Texas triangle" against the San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks, and Houston Rockets, the Warriors starting lineup made sure to let their fans know that they have not given up on this season yet.  

Some significant stats from tonight's 138-100 victory against the Raptors are as follows:  Monta Ellis led the way with 27 points and 10 assists.  Dorell Wright added 26 points of his own. Stephen Curry also had 23 points and eight assists.  

The Warriors also scored a season high 84 points in the first half.  This broke the previous record of an 80-point first half which was set by Denver in a 127-99 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers earlier in this season.  

What fans may have also noticed in tonight's game was how long the starters remained in the game.  

The Warriors, at one point, still had a 40-point lead going into the fourth quarter.  At this point, the starters were still in the game.  

One could argue that this type of performance was necessary for Warriors Head Coach Keith Smart to remain the head coach next season and for seasons to come.  

After tonight's performance, Warriors fans will notice two things.

First, it was clear that the Warriors were glad to be back home at Oracle Arena.  This was evident from the end of the first quarter.  

Second, the players have certainly not given up on this season, and they certainly have not given up on Smart. 

While odds of playoffs are slim, fans may find it refreshing to know that the Warriors are playing somewhat meaningful basketball during the last two weeks of the season.  

The Warriors must now respond with another great home performance against the Wizards before hitting the road to face the Thunder and Grizzlies.