Jun 6, 2016
Thoughts on NBA Finals through two games
TSN basketball analyst Jack Armstrong checks in with his thoughts on the trends of the NBA Finals through two games in California.
TSN basketball analyst Jack Armstrong checks in with his thoughts on the trends of the NBA Finals through two games in California.
1. Draymond Green (Warriors): He was fabulous in Game 2 with 28 points, seven rebounds and five assists, showing his wonderful versatility. His five made three-pointers were huge and he made the Cavs pay dearly for leaving him open. His defence on Kevin Love has been excellent in the first two games and he's really good at roaming and helping on LeBron James around the basket. All around, he has played beautifully.
2. Cavaliers Defence: In both games they've struggled shooting the ball and with turnovers - those problems are disastrous when you play Golden State. The Warriors push the ball at you hard in transition and space you out and if you don't communicate your assignments, screen sequences, switches, etc. you're in huge trouble. And that's exactly what's happened through two games. The transition defence has been poor and even in the half court 5-on-5 sequences, there have been a number of breakdowns. It's clear to me that OKC was the better defensive team by far, yet I never expected the Cavs to be this bad over the course of 96 minutes. Better improve or this will be over fast.
3. Warriors Defence: The have been outstanding. A big reason why they're flowing offensively is off of the setup by their defence. They have so many defenders that can guard a guy straight up without help which is critical against the Cavs. Cleveland thrives on you doubling LeBron James, Kyrie Irving and/or Love and then getting the ball flying all over the gym while you chase for three's, dunks and drives. The Warriors defence has utterly stifled that look altogether. Chasing guys off the three-point line, being physical and sound on LeBron (it’s amazing how few calls he gets when he plays against a legit defence with a solid reputation) and guarding dribble penetration really well. Quite simply, impressive.
4. Channing Frye (Cavaliers): Where is the playing time for Frye? He's played a combined 11 minutes in two games after being a force off the bench in the playoffs prior to the Finals. I know that match ups dictate at times but if he can't even legitimately get into the flow of the game, how do you truly judge whether he can be effective or not? Strange decision by Tyronn Lue.
5. Warriors Passing: 54 assists in two games- that's flow. Player and ball movement, spacing, smarts and patience have all been on display by the defending champions. They are shredding the Cavaliers with all of it. Golden State was very sloppy in Game 2 with 20 turnovers after only seven in Game 1 and the Cavs failed to make them pay. Cleveland must find a way to make the Warriors feel uncomfortable and get them off their mark. They look too much like a team that's in that zone and having fun. It’s well earned. Lots of high basketball IQ guys that play the game right. It’s fun to watch.