Los Angeles Clippers head coach Doc Rivers knows what they need to do when they face the Golden State Warriors in the first round of the 2018-19 playoffs: defend hard.

However, the veteran coach knows that it is easier said than done, especially against the star-studded lineup of the Dubs.

Speaking to reporters before practice on Friday, Rivers admitted that they are wary of the Warriors' transition game, and he pointed out that making the necessary stops and preventing Golden State from finding their rhythm will be pivotal for them.

“Listen, they do what they do and they do it well,” Rivers said pertaining to the Warriors' transition offense, per Mirjam Swanson of Press-Enterprise. “We have to try to guard it as hard as we can guard it. We have to be as physical as we can be without losing who we are and losing our principles.”

The 57-year-old tactician also emphasized the importance of staying physical and playing hard-nosed defense considering that they are up against the likes of Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson.

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“I don’t think we need an analytical staff to tell you that if Steph, Klay and Durant are taking the bulk of the shots, it’s probably not gonna turn out well for you,” Rivers said. “Anytime you can limit any one of those three from taking a shot, it’s a good thing.”

The eighth-seeded Clippers are not expected to put up much of a fight against the Warriors in the postseason. In fact, according to a report by ESPN, they are the biggest underdogs  in 30 years, with the odds stacked against them.

Doc Rivers and his Clippers have proven they can beat the odds this season, having been counted out at the beginning of the year and in the middle of the campaign after they traded their best player. However, the playoffs are different, and they might need more than just luck to last seven games against the Warriors.

Golden State is looking to win their third-straight title this year, and after topping the brutal Western Conference with a 57-25 record, they are heavily favored to reach the NBA Finals again and get the job done.