The Cavs did something in Game 5 that has never been done before in the Finals: Kyrie Irving and LeBron James became the first set of teammates to go for 40 or more points each. But, there is no reason to panic in Warrior-land.
Consider the facts in looking at the dismantling of the Warriors in the second half of the potential clincher on Monday night. First, let’s state the obvious: there is no way that James and Irving will go for 82 points again. It just won’t happen. You almost feel sorry for Kevin Love, who is supposedly an integral part of the the Big Three, but just can’t get it going. Couple that with the fact that due to a suspension and knee injury, respectively, Draymond Green and Andrew Bogut combined to play just 7 minutes and 35 seconds. The Dubs’ two best shot-blockers, post defenders and communicators on the court just weren’t there. Bogut and Green set the defense, call out the switches and set the tone on the court. On the offensive end, they play the roles of facilitators with their passing ability.
Bogut will be out for 6-8 weeks, but remember that he played only 10 minutes in Game 5 last year and not at all in Game 6 as Golden State went small in the clincher. I would still start Festus Ezeli, and he needs to have a big game. Steve Kerr would be smart to still have Andre Iguodala come off the bench, as he’s much more effective with the second unit.
One of the scenarios that may be best for the NBA would be if Draymond Green comes out and plays great, finishes the game playing center and then wins the MVP of The Finals. Everybody loves a redemption story.
Like I said after Game 4, no matter what happens, I just don’t see the Warriors losing three games in a row. They were the best team in the NBA all season, lost back-to-back games only once this calendar year and in these situations, the cream always rises to the top. Yes, it would have been nice to see a championship celebration on the home court Monday night, but the Cavs came out to play and showed why they are in the Finals too.
As basketball fans, we’re happy to see a few more games of guys playing at the highest level, but I just don’t see that type of game by Cleveland carrying over to Game 6, much less Game 7. Don’t sweat it, Dub Nation.
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