Clippers vs Warriors: Why the Warriors Will Take Down Los Angeles

The Warriors had exactly what they wanted. A group of young guys that feature a variety of skills, all ready to kick off the season on Christmas Day.

Then Stephen Curry got hurt.

Still, the Warriors aren't a team that you can't overlook, because they will bite if you do. The Warriors keep games close, and while they need to work on coming through in the clutch, one big shot after another from Monta Ellis, David Lee, Curry or others can stun you and lift Golden State to victory.

Against the Clippers, it would usually be an easy game, but now that Chris Paul is donning the Clipper red, they have become a legit opponent. Paul feeding the beast, Blake Griffin, will be an exciting sight, and it will attract viewers to the game.

Chauncey Billups and Caron Butler have added to the Clipper core, and now they have the L.A. media attention in their possession. But in their regular season opener, the hype may hurt the Clippers, or they may overlook Golden State, who could be without Curry, their second-best player.

When they are on the road in an environment that can get loud, a lot can go wrong. Ellis can light up the D, a big dunk from David Lee and a clutch three from Dorell Wright could get Golden State going early and leave Chris Paul and the Clips in a hole they have to climb out of.

The Warriors only beat the Clippers and Hornets six times in 13 games in 2010-11 and 2009-10, but they were able to stomp the Clips when they won and bottle up Chris Paul. If Brandon Rush or Klay Thompson shoot well and fill the void Curry leaves, Chris Paul and the Clips could struggle.

Randy Foye and DeAndre Jordan are part of the Clippers' starting lineup, and if Chauncey Billups takes Foye's place, Ellis will light up the aging guard. Down low, Andris Biedrins and David Lee could bottle up Jordan, and they could slow down Griffin.

Taking that approach and grabbing an early lead is the key for the Warriors to win, and they will need to be in the game at halftime so they can control the crowd and take over the game with breathtaking plays.

Momentum will be key, and with the crowd on the Warriors' side, Chris Paul and Blake Griffin could have a surprise coming for them. A big L on their record.

The Warriors will battle it out and start the season strong, with or without Curry.