Not Tristan Thompson or Klay Thompson. . .
For whatever reason, many are touting this NBA Finals as the defining moment for the career of LeBron James. However, we’re not expecting anything to ever hinder his greatness or legacy; after overcoming a 3-1 series deficit, to route the 73-record setting Golden State Warriors. With Steph Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green winning their first ring two years ago, the original big three have had success on the biggest stage, as well as their opponents.
However, this NBA Finals is ONLY about Kevin Durant. Not LeBron James passing up Michael Jordan, chasing the ghost or evening out his below .500 record in the NBA Finals. When Durant left Russell Westbrook and the Oklahoma City Thunder last summer, he essentially made 2017 a lame-duck year; as the basketball world expected the imminent summer trilogy that we get in June.
In the series, LeBron will have to guard Durant for the duration of the game, because of mismatches and sizing issues on the wing and paint. If Golden State does happen to lose the finals, no one will care about what Curry, Draymond or Klay did. All eyes will go towards Durant not maximizing his talents to win them certain games, especially with James being gassed from running the offense on the opposite end. By leaving Westbrook behind, Kevin continues to live his dream of shooting at will, as he’s the only player on the Warriors team that’s un-guardable for this Cleveland roster.
We’re not expecting him to have a breakout game 1 in the series, because of butterflies returning to the big stage for the first time in five years. However, by game 3, Durant should be re-adjusted to getting comfort against his biggest competition and could have a breakout career moment. In year’s past (including the Finals), LeBron has gotten the best of Durant, during his time OKC.
But, with a roster around him taking a 1.B seat to the greatest shooter of all time, he should be mentally ready to potentially hoist a Larry O’Brien Trophy. Let us know in the comments if you think Durant won’t crumble in the clutch against the current champs.