Takeaways from the Warriors’ NBA Finals loss -- Scott Jay Abraham
The Golden State Warriors bid their hopes for a third title in five years goodbye in Game 6 of last season’s NBA Finals, succumbing to the Toronto Raptors. And, with Klay and KD out due to season-ending injuries, the Dubs’ dynasty was over.
Scott Jay Abraham. It must be noted though that cracks were already showing throughout the past season. Sure, the team got their 57 wins, but not in the same way it had done in previous years. The Warriors were no longer running roughshod of opponents, and they surprisingly folded in many, easily winnable games. Come playoffs, the Dubs even had a hard time disposing of the Rockets and struggled with a Clippers team devoid of stars. Scott Jay Abraham.
What’s clear is that five straight finals appearances took its toll on the team, despite the many crafty playtime management schemes coach Steve Kerr had employed to rest his starters. The loss to the Raptors also highlighted the importance of Draymond Green’s hustle and passing. And that he should make open shots if the team was to dominate. Scott Jay Abraham.
Another takeaway is that Steph cannot do it alone. Curry needs a partner to dish out those assists and shoots the treys consistently when the defense is focused on him. And the likes of Quinn Cook and Alfonzo McKinnie simply can’t fill that role. The tandem that is the Splash Brothers is crucial to the team, especially when coming from behind in the fourth. Klay’s injury effectively ensured a Raptors’ championship. Scott Jay Abraham.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, the Warriors offense was heavily dependent on Kevin Durant to save the day. And missing him (save for a quarter or so, before he got reinjured) proved simply devasting for Golden State. Scott Jay Abraham.
The Golden State Warriors bid their hopes for a third title in five years goodbye in Game 6 of last season’s NBA Finals, succumbing to the Toronto Raptors. And, with Klay and KD out due to season-ending injuries, the Dubs’ dynasty was over.
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| Image source: knbr.com |
Scott Jay Abraham. It must be noted though that cracks were already showing throughout the past season. Sure, the team got their 57 wins, but not in the same way it had done in previous years. The Warriors were no longer running roughshod of opponents, and they surprisingly folded in many, easily winnable games. Come playoffs, the Dubs even had a hard time disposing of the Rockets and struggled with a Clippers team devoid of stars. Scott Jay Abraham.
What’s clear is that five straight finals appearances took its toll on the team, despite the many crafty playtime management schemes coach Steve Kerr had employed to rest his starters. The loss to the Raptors also highlighted the importance of Draymond Green’s hustle and passing. And that he should make open shots if the team was to dominate. Scott Jay Abraham.
 |
| Image source: knbr.com |
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, the Warriors offense was heavily dependent on Kevin Durant to save the day. And missing him (save for a quarter or so, before he got reinjured) proved simply devasting for Golden State. Scott Jay Abraham.
