Despite all that talent, however, the Warriors still needed seven games to defeat the top-seededRocketsin the Western Conference finals. Golden State played well, but it was also the biggest challenge the Warriors have faced sinceKevin Durantjoined forces withStephen CurryKlay Thompsonand Co. Besides that, they breezed through the playoffs on their way back to the finals.
Although LeBron James is playing as well as he ever has, the Warriors still have the best starting lineup in the NBA. Although Andre Iguodala missed Game 1, and likely Game 2 as well, theres still an outrageous amount of weapons on Golden States roster.
The Cavaliers, on the other hand, have had a rough road back to this rematch. It took seven games in the first round against Indiana and they needed a superhuman effort fromLeBron Jamesagainst Boston in the conference finals, winning four of the final five games of the series to punch a ticket to the Finals. However, theyre back again and that alone should be seen as an accomplishment after a drama-filled season.
The Warriors need to get the ball into the hands of Curry and let him go to work. Durant is incredible, but his isolation sets have had a tendency to drag down Golden States offense at times. The Warriors are at their best when Curry is bending a defense to his will and he needs the ball to do that. Give the ball to Curry and let him unleash the Warriors heavy 3-point shooting offense.
Its time to run it back again. The vauntedGolden State Warriorsand the LeBron James-ledCleveland Cavaliersare playing in theNBAFinals for the fourth consecutive year. The series tipped off with a wild and exciting Game 1, which included quite the dramatic finish. After an opener like that, theres no shortage of anticipation heading into Game 2.
The Cavs should be at full strength after news that both Tristan Thompson and Kevin Lovewill not be suspendedfor Game 2. They have to be kicking themselves after giving away Game 1 due to mental mistakes. The Warriors, on the other hand, are probably just happy to be up 1-0 with a chance to lead 2-0 before heading to Cleveland.
LeBron James has been out of his mind on the court lately. If the Cavs are going to have any chance against the greatest collection of talent ever assembled, hell need to keep up that level of play. Considering he is averaging 34 points, 9.2 rebounds and 8.8 assists per game these playoffs, that at least feels possible. Hell need at least some help from Love,George HillTristan ThompsonandKyle Korver. If those four dont show up then it doesnt matter what James does. It wont be enough.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.