Warriors Defeat Lakers, Clinch Playoff Spot For 3rd Straight Season
OAKLAND (CBS / AP) -- Klay Thompson scored 26 points, Stephen Curry had 19 points and nine assists and the Golden State Warriors secured a playoff spot before beating the depleted Los Angeles Lakers 108-105 on Monday night.
The Warriors sealed their postseason berth during a timeout late in the second quarter when they learned Oklahoma City lost 119-115 at Dallas. The videoboards above halfcourt displayed "CLINCHED," and fans inside the sold-out arena gave the home team a standing ovation.
It's the first time the franchise has made the playoffs in three consecutive seasons since 1975-77.
The Lakers (17-49), who have tormented Golden State for most of the last three decades, are the team trying to climb out of the Pacific Division cellar now. Los Angeles kept the game close but never overtook the Warriors in the final minutes.
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