De'Anthony Melton knows that every backcourt partner of Steph Curry will, fairly or not, be compared to the Golden State standard set by Klay Thompson. The five-time All-Star was the starting shooting guard next to Curry for all four of the team's modern-day titles, providing defense and the perfect off-ball complement to Curry's dynamism. Melton, who is rounding into form after missing an entire year rehabbing from left ACL surgery, had plenty of time to study Thompson as he rehabbed.
SAN FRANCISCO - The Warriors' Christmas Day opponent does not share a time zone or even a division with Golden State, but it would be difficult to find a more fitting foe for the NBA's flagship day than the Dallas Mavericks. The Mavs dwell among the Western Conference's bottom-feeders, but no team in either conference presents the sheer volume of storylines as the outfit from Texas' largest city. From beloved Bay Area icons returning home to the best rookie in the league to a possible trade target and more, there is plenty for Warriors fans to be excited about.