WARRIORS
Shooting threats
In Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson the Warriors have two of the NBA’s best outside weapons. Curry is automatic off the dribble and has a quick release and range, while Thompson is deadly off the catch. Both will run off several screens to get open.
The KD factor
An athletic forward with a wingspan of 2.25m, he is arguably the best all-round scorer in the game. Kevin Durant has become the team’s new star since his controversial arrival at the start of the season and could be the difference-maker it lacked last year.
Better small ball
No-one uses small ball more effectively. The basic idea is that you sacrifice size and strength for speed and agility during parts of the game. Now add Durant into the mix. He provides the length of a big man and the agility of a swingman. All of a sudden that small line-up is not so small, but is far more difficult to guard.
CAVALIERS
LeBron unguardable?
These playoffs, LeBron James’ three-point percentage is on par with Curry’s, while his two-point percentage is higher than Shaquille O’Neal’s ever was. And he is probably an even better passer than scorer. That is the definition of a tough match-up.
The King’s best servants
James’ teams in Miami were pretty good, but this might be his best yet. Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love are both multidimensional threats and are surrounded with exceptional role-players who are elite in various areas.
How good are they?
The naysayers have put the Cavs’ dominance so far down to a weak Eastern Conference. But we have heard that before. This series will be proof, one way or the other, of how good this team actually is.
Who wins?
It is always risky betting against LeBron, but the Warriors might have too much this year. Golden State takes it in six.
