Golden State Of Mind: All Posts by Greg Thomas"UNSTOPPABLE BABY!" - Warriors rookie Marc Jackson to the Mavs' bench, after a lay-up during a 29-point loss (2000)https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/50563/gsom-fav.png2018-12-15T14:00:05-08:00https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/authors/greg-thomas/rss2018-12-15T14:00:05-08:002018-12-15T14:00:05-08:00Warrior Wonder: Strength in Numbers
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<figcaption>Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>When down in crunch time, it was a collective team effort that proved that strength in numbers was the true Warrior on display.</p> <p id="9ws4qY">The competition is elevating in the NBA and <a href="https://www.sactownroyalty.com/">Kings</a> were out in full force in the 4th quarter trying to take down the world champs in a revenge game from last month where the <a href="https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/">Warriors</a> won in the finals seconds of that game. </p>
<p id="2v01au">There were plenty of excellent performances in this contest and faced with a 10 point deficit late in the 4th quarter on the road, the team banded together a pulled out a victory in the jaws of defeat. Last night’s Warrior Wonder was a collective effort from the closing lineup in crunch time, Strength in Numbers.</p>
<p id="FssU1y"><span><strong>Draymond Green</strong></span></p>
<p id="FKggc4">With the Warriors down 113-121 with about five minutes left in the game, <span>Draymond Green</span> helped lock down Willie Cauley Stein who was scoring at will to help the Kings pad their lead. Draymond’s defensive efforts helped push the Warriors to a 17-4 run to finish off the game. For putting up just 2 points, <span>Green</span> put together hell of stat line with 2 points, 10 assists, and 14 rebounds. </p>
<p id="o1k88V"><span><strong>Klay Thompson</strong></span></p>
<p id="WZTWpy"><span>Klay Thompson</span> was critical down the stretch, snagging a few key defensive rebounds off missed threes. Both led to <span>Kevin Durant</span> buckets that cut the deficit in half. <span>Thompson</span> also had the three that decisively put the Warriors up for good 126-125 with less than 40 seconds to play. On top of that, <span>Thompson</span> had some words of wisdom at halftime.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Klay Thompson with a very Klay-esque halftime interview <a href="https://t.co/NuDXyf3vY3">pic.twitter.com/NuDXyf3vY3</a></p>— The Render (@TheRenderNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRenderNBA/status/1073794017983369216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2018</a>
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<p id="AliyQh">Klay finished off with a stat line of 27 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists</p>
<p id="QPhQfD"><span><strong>Stephen Curry</strong></span></p>
<p id="UGmctU"><span>Curry</span> was his usual self, knocking down threes and getting to the rim, navigating the defense like a ballerina. With just under 2 minutes left to play and the Kings up 123-119 and with possession, <span>Curry</span> stole an outlet pass that was intended for <span>Buddy Hield</span> to lead a fast break and cut the deficit down to 2 points. He finished the night with 35 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists. </p>
<p id="JbFOQw">The biggest question that still remains is, was it a dunk??</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Steph Curry with the monster dunk in crunch time! <a href="https://t.co/4ycqbExERM">pic.twitter.com/4ycqbExERM</a></p>— The Render (@TheRenderNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRenderNBA/status/1073962193744523264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2018</a>
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<p id="muZAUZ"><span><strong>Kevin Durant</strong></span></p>
<p id="ufDcj3">Down by 10 points, it seemed as though <span>Kevin Durant</span> wasn’t ready to accept defeat. He forced his way passed <span>Justin Jackson</span> to get two five quick points on back to back baskets to trim the deficit to four points. <span>Jackson</span> got a dose of reality as <span>Durant</span> just ran passed him and umped him out of the way like he was just a minor nuisance. He collected 13 points in the 4th that helped the Dubs pull away for a victory. He finished off with 33 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 assists. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">13 points in the fourth quarter of a comeback win. <a href="https://twitter.com/KDTrey5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KDTrey5</a> with the stat line of the game, presented by <a href="https://twitter.com/zoom_us?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@zoom_us</a> <a href="https://t.co/c0hrBpoGJM">pic.twitter.com/c0hrBpoGJM</a></p>— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) <a href="https://twitter.com/warriors/status/1073832273064058880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2018</a>
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<p id="nS8hLI">Now it’s time for you to vote for your Warrior Wonder and Golden Sidekick for last night’s game against the Kings:</p>
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https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/2018/12/15/18142341/2018-nba-golden-state-warriors-defeat-sacramento-kings-stephen-curry-deaaron-foxGreg Thomas2018-10-26T00:00:01-07:002018-10-26T00:00:01-07:00Preview: Warriors hit the road for a showdown with the Knicks at the Garden
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<figcaption>Last time the Warriors visited Madison Square Garden, they left Jon Stewart dazed and confused. | Getty</figcaption>
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<p>A red hot Stephen Curry and the Warriors head to Madison Square Garden to continue their rampage on the league</p> <h2 id="YIuET8"><strong>Game Details</strong></h2>
<p id="OLFWTn"><strong>WHO:</strong> <a href="https://www.postingandtoasting.com/">New York Knicks</a> (1-4) at <a href="https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/">Golden State Warriors</a> (4-1)</p>
<p id="MapTEB"><strong>WHEN: </strong>Friday, October 26 at 4:30 p.m. PST</p>
<p id="0JukEN"><strong>WHERE:</strong> Madison Square Garden — New York, NY</p>
<p id="L9U5cX"><strong>HOW TO WATCH:</strong> NBC Sports Bay Area</p>
<p id="WNR8St"><strong>BLOG BUDDY:</strong> <a href="https://www.postingandtoasting.com/">Toasting and Posting</a></p>
<h2 id="1hdgSn"><strong>Key Injuries</strong></h2>
<p id="ignIAx"><strong>Warriors: </strong> <span>DeMarcus Cousins</span><strong> </strong>(left Achilles) out</p>
<p id="ZQYwdA"><strong>Knicks</strong>: <span>Kristaps Porzingis</span> (knee) out, <span>Kevin Knox</span> (ankle) out, Emanuel Mudiay (ankle) day-to-day</p>
<p id="BPEfg2">Aside from a narrow loss in Denver, the Warriors have once again looked like an unstoppable force, and now they hit the road for the first game of a three game Eastern Conference swing. </p>
<p id="vwlQ62">The Warriors look to stay hot as they take on the struggling New York Knicks, who are without their star player Kristaps Porzingis who is still recovering from a torn ACL from last season. The Knicks will also be without their promising rookie Kevin Knox who suffered an ankle injury and is expected to be out anywhere from <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheathletic.com%2F604962%2F2018%2F10%2F22%2Fthe-knicks-wont-have-kevin-knox-for-a-while-but-what-is-the-real-cost-of-that-injury%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goldenstateofmind.com%2F2018%2F10%2F26%2F18019318%2F2018-nba-golden-state-warriors-new-york-knicks-stephen-curry-madison-square-garden" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">two to four weeks</a>.</p>
<h2 id="vRTxHU"><strong>Stephen Curry in MVP form</strong></h2>
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<figcaption>Is Steph Curry a legitimate MVP candidate this season?</figcaption>
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<p id="dyDnbK">The Warriors are 4-1 and Stephen Curry looks like he is in his unanimous MVP form from the 2015-2016 season. The swagger is there and he is shooting the lights out. Just when we thought Curry couldn’t hit another level, he puts on a show. Just take a look at some of these eye-popping stats he’s put up this season:</p>
<p id="R8EHwQ"><strong>Three-point percentage</strong> - 52.4% (45.4% was career high in 2015-2016 season)</p>
<p id="3lP4lh"><strong>Three-pointers made/per game</strong> - 6.6 (5.1 per game was career high in 2015-2016 season)</p>
<p id="bRGcLY"><strong>True-shooting percentage </strong>- 72.9%!!! (Career high was 67.5% in 2017-2018 season)</p>
<p id="jZdi93"><strong>Points per game</strong> - 34.6 (averaged 30.1 per game in 2015-2016 which was a career high)</p>
<p id="C5MOPP"><strong>Overall FG percentage </strong>- 55% (average 50.4% in 2015-2016 which was a career high)</p>
<p id="iUUnaT"><strong>Field goals attempted per game</strong> - 21.8 (averaged 20.2 per game in 2015-2016)</p>
<p id="VUMRmT">The sample size is small as we are looking at just a five game stretch versus an entire season, but if the first few weeks of action are any indication of what we can expect from Curry, he is looking the best he has since his last MVP season. </p>
<p id="1h8x3U">He poured in 51 points in just three quarters against the Wizards and could have hit 70 had Steve Kerr not decided to have him sit the entire fourth quarter with the game well in hand. Now Curry heads to Madison Square Garden where he had his official coming out party back in 2012. Expect Curry to be in his purest form and put on an absolute show in prime time at the Garden. </p>
<p id="BgL4YK"><strong>Prediction</strong>: Curry goes for 45 points, 8 three-pointers, 6 assists, 5 rebounds, 3 steals</p>
<p id="QJiJZ2">Flame on human torch.</p>
<h2 id="ITaFxp"><strong>Is Kevin Durant ready to show up and show out in front of his future team?</strong></h2>
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<p id="5OwikD">Free agency concerns over Kevin Durant’s future were a big topic headed into the regular season and the biggest rumor seemed to be Durant being a hot target for the New York Knicks to acquire in free agency. </p>
<p id="CvhEqz">Whether it is just hot air or not, there is growing concern that Durant may leave at the end of the season and try a new challenge. With this being the Warriors only trip to New York this season, this will be a prime opportunity for the city of New York to serenade Durant. </p>
<p id="IYfZiP">While it seemed that Durant was a lock to sign a long term deal about a year ago, there is no telling what may happen this coming offseason when Kyrie Irving, Kawhi Leonard, Jimmy Butler and Klay Thomson all set to hit the free agency market. </p>
<p id="kyJkTi">The allure of New York is always enticing but the Knicks never seem to be able to snag any of the big free agents. In any case, much of the discussion headed into the showdown with the Knicks will revolve around Durant’s potential future as the beast of the east. </p>
<h2 id="jNQWnp"><strong>Will the Warriors prevail or will New York city night life remain undefeated?</strong></h2>
<p id="q2ddgi">While the Knicks are depleted, the Warriors true test will be their ability to resist the New York city night life. The Warriors always seem to fall victim to Los Angeles and New York city weekend road trips. </p>
<p id="1Yar98">While the Warriors should show up and be fine against the Knicks, expect them to fall into a trap game against the Brooklyn Nets on an early Sunday game on the first of a back-to-back (Brooklyn Sunday and Chicago Monday). Friday and Saturday night out in the big city before a Sunday day game spells tired legs and turnovers. Dubs will split the difference and go 1-1. </p>
<p id="UW1VgC">Warriors - 1</p>
<p id="KCX2Pc">New York City Night Life - 1</p>
https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/2018/10/26/18019318/2018-nba-golden-state-warriors-new-york-knicks-stephen-curry-madison-square-gardenGreg Thomas2018-10-23T11:00:01-07:002018-10-23T11:00:01-07:00Damian Jones is rising like a Phoenix from the ashes
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<figcaption>Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Damian Jones has faced tough competition to start the season and has been stellar. He earns Warriors Wonder for stepping up big.</p> <p id="u8b4mC"><span>Damian Jones</span> was eviscerated by Juan Hernangomez at the rim to end the game and seal a victory for the <a href="https://www.denverstiffs.com/">Nuggets</a> just 24 hours before this game. Jones could have been immortalized in <a href="https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/">Warriors</a> lore in the likes of <span>Jonas Jerebko</span> if he finished an easy layup, yet he burst into ashes and became a mere mortal once again. </p>
<p id="hfIhLL">Just one night after suffering a loss by way of game ending block on the road in Denver, Jones had a chance to rise from the ashes like a Phoenix and become born again in the ways of the ancient Greek mythological creature. </p>
<p id="oNK8MV">Jones’ ascension this season has really been from the ashes as he was considered forgotten and grossly overlooked by many headed into this season. With JaVale McGee, <span>David West</span>, and <span>Zaza Pachulia</span> all off the roster, many people looked at <span>Jordan Bell</span> as the Warriors starting Center of the future. <span>DeMarcus Cousins</span> joining the team in free agency had further established doubt over Jones role in the Warriors lineup. </p>
<p id="GbFQKh"><span>Damian Jones</span> got the nod as the starting Center on opening night and in four games he has looked far more impressive than any stretch in his first two years in the league. Facing Steven Adams, <span>Rudy Gobert</span>, <span>Nikola Jokic</span>, and DeAndre Ayton to start the season was no easy task and he has answered the <span>Bell</span> (pun intended) in impressive fashion.</p>
<p id="eMtpsS">Against the <a href="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/">Suns</a>, Jones recorded a line of: 13 points on 5-5 field-goals, 4 rebound, 1 block, and 1 assist. That point total represents a career high in Jones’ young career. A career high and a strong 1st quarter in a blowout victory earns <span>Damian Jones</span> honors as Warrior Wonder against the Phoenix Suns. </p>
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<p id="Mbzssb"><span>Damian Jones</span> was a raw athlete out of college and for much of the first two years of his career, he was an unknown as he was either in Santa Cruz with the Warriors G-League affiliate, or buried at the end of the bench as the 15th man. He was often limited to getting minutes during blowout wins and losses. It didn’t help that <span>Kevon Looney</span> had emerged and carved out a larger role last season. </p>
<p id="t6LjIW"><span>Jordan Bell</span>’s flashes of brilliance as a rookie did not help either. Not much was asked or expected of Jones. </p>
<p id="7ysKKi">This year we are seeing the fruits of the labor Jones has put in with all his time in Santa Cruz over the last few years. While Jones will not be asked to do too much on a nightly basis because of the Warriors embarrassment of riches at the other four starting positions, his best ability will be his availability. </p>
<p id="kc0EHC">Facing the the NBA’s newest big man and the number one overall pick in this past summer’s draft, Damian Jones opened some more eyes as he outplayed Ayton to begin the game. He was active on the defense and on the boards as displayed by this put back after a missed corner three by <span>Stephen Curry</span>:</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Damian Jones - a PROBLEM <a href="https://t.co/jALujuS1ws">pic.twitter.com/jALujuS1ws</a></p>— 95.7 The Game (@957thegame) <a href="https://twitter.com/957thegame/status/1054566953463906304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2018</a>
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<p id="nrnnHK">This has been what we have seen all season from Jones and if his early play is indicative of what we can expect all year, then Jones will only prove to be an exciting spark plug in an already electric offense. The young platoon of Jones, <span>Looney</span>, and <span>Bell</span> will be fun to watch all season as each guy offers a different skill set depending on game flow and situation. </p>
<p id="XwWnUx">Jones has every reason to keep playing up to this level as a key date is coming up next week where the Warriors can pick up that 4th year option. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Steve Kerr: "This is why we have to have Damian (Jones) ... he passed this week's test with flying colors." The Warriors have until Oct. 31 to pick up Jones' 4th-year option (worth $2.3 million). I think it's pretty safe to assume that is going to happen...</p>— Drew Shiller (@DrewShiller) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrewShiller/status/1054601364481826816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2018</a>
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<p id="RbSZCt">Schedule lightens up as Jones next faces a softer schedule on deck: <span>Dwight Howard</span> & <span>Enes Kanter</span></p>
<p id="gst2ED">Now it is time for you to cast your vote for your Warrior Wonder:</p>
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https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/2018/10/23/18012986/2018-golden-state-warriors-phoenix-suns-damian-jones-deandre-ayton-stephen-curry-devin-bookerGreg Thomas2018-06-03T00:00:01-07:002018-06-03T00:00:01-07:00NBA Finals Game 2 Preview: Warriors aim to take a 2-0 lead against the Cavs
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<img alt="NBA: Finals-Cleveland Cavaliers at Golden State Warriors" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/3usAP4c5uoVFL76aLqt2RSPD5p8=/0x0:4035x2690/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59935957/usa_today_10866366.0.jpg" />
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<p>After a highly contested and somewhat controversial game one, the Warriors and Cavs square off again. Will the Cavs be able to recover from their game one blunder?</p> <p id="qbOyQO">There wasn’t a ton of hype going into these <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nba-finals">NBA Finals</a> as it was what we expected at the beginning of the season. <a href="https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/">Warriors</a> Cavs part four. Many have grown tired of this matchup wanting something new and refreshing. </p>
<p id="9WrBYy">Well, if game one was any indication, this NBA Finals still has the same level of drama and tension between the two teams. There may be a larger disparity in level of talent, but the tension is still there. </p>
<h2 id="nJsa4P"><strong>Game 2 Details</strong></h2>
<p id="Bi6OAP"><strong>WHAT:</strong> Warriors vs. <a href="https://www.fearthesword.com/">Cavaliers</a>, Game 2 </p>
<p id="wmGuCo"><strong>WHEN:</strong> Sunday, June 3, 5:00 p.m. PST</p>
<p id="D4YO2f"><strong>WHERE: </strong>Oracle Arena, Oakland, CA</p>
<p id="r5lqoa"><strong>WATCH:</strong> ABC </p>
<p id="U4z23X"><strong>LISTEN: </strong>95.7 the Game, ESPN Radio</p>
<p id="v9YprL"><strong>Enemy Blog:</strong> <a href="https://www.fearthesword.com/">Fear the Sword</a></p>
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<strong>Injury update</strong>: </h3>
<p id="tP9oCY">Headed into game two, <span>Andre Iguodala</span> is listed as doubtful and is expected to miss his sixth straight game in the playoffs. It’s hard to say whether <span>Iguodala</span> will even return at this point in the postseason.</p>
<p id="45JgA9">During game one, <span>Klay Thompson</span> suffered a leg contusion when <span>J.R. Smith</span> <s>thought the game was over</s> slipped and slide tackled Thompson, nearly snapping Klay’s ankle. Thankfully Thompson came back from the locker room fairly quickly and had a big impact in the second half. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Injury report for tomorrow night's Game 2 of the NBA Finals: Patrick McCaw (lumbar spine recovery) is probable; Klay Thompson (left lateral leg contusion) is questionable; Andre Iguodala (left lateral leg contusion/bone bruise) is doubtful.</p>— Warriors PR (@WarriorsPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/WarriorsPR/status/1003048870295711745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2018</a>
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<p id="idqxrT"><span>Klay Thompson</span> is currently listed as questionable as the pain has seemed to have gotten worse after a few days. If Thompson is unable to go, we might just see <span>Nick Young</span> inserted into that starting lineup. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Klay Thompson limping in to his availability. Said the pain got worse overnight. If game were today, he said he’s “not sure” if he’d play. On tomorrow: “I’m planning on playing” <a href="https://t.co/XO0tulThjs">pic.twitter.com/XO0tulThjs</a></p>— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) <a href="https://twitter.com/anthonyVslater/status/1003002556136615936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2018</a>
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<p id="F8v7wV">With <span>Kevon Looney</span> possibly starting at Center and the chance <span>Nick Young</span> starts at shooting guard (if Thompson is unable to go) this may be the first time in NBA Finals history where cousins will be in the starting lineup. For the record, <span>Kevon Looney</span> and <span>Nick Young</span> are first cousins. </p>
<h3 id="jfsDlT"><strong>Will the Cavs be able to rebound from game one loss?</strong></h3>
<p id="I3ZPef">The Cavs played just about as good as they could have in game one with a historic performance from LeBron James. In the end, it was the supporting cast that led to the Cavs ultimate demise. Headed into game two, the question is who will step up and elevate their game to give the Cavs a chance against the Warriors? </p>
<p id="rKjCKN">LeBron James will get his and <span>Kevin Love</span> will as well. After that, it’s really just a rag tag team that has to collectively step up. Will J.R. Smith right his wrong and come up big in game two?</p>
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<strong>Will the loss of Thompson & </strong><span><strong>Iguodala</strong></span><strong> level the playing field against Cleveland?</strong>
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<p id="JevysX">During the Western Conference Finals, the loss of Iguodala was clearly felt throughout games four and five. Iguodala has functioned as one of the better defenders on LeBron James in past Finals and maybe a key reason why James was able to go off in game one. Without <span>Klay Thompson</span> as well, the Warriors will be missing two of their best defenders as well as a huge part of their offense. </p>
<p id="EGgkDV">This will really come down to the Warriors ability to limit their turnovers and just continue to play their style of offense. If Cleveland can find a way to force the Warriors offense to become more stagnant and slow down the pace of the game, we might see a tighter than expected affair. </p>
<h3 id="QizSyV"><strong>What can we expect in game two?</strong></h3>
<p id="vueZQO">LeBron James had a historic performance, to expect that two straight games may be a bit much. Game one was their’s to steal and they let it fall through the cracks. The Warriors will come out firing in game two and this might just get ugly. <span>Kevin Durant</span> left a lot to be desired in game one as he continued to resort to isolations late in the game. The Warriors play much better when Curry has control of the offense.</p>
<p id="KhIi7U">I think we see a more efficient game from <span>Durant</span> especially if Klay Thompson is out the lineup. The Warriors will need Curry and <span>Durant</span> to balance the offense with the Warriors already functioning with a short rotation. </p>
<p id="2QFTSS">I expect a blowout, but it’s probably because the refs rigged this one too right?</p>
<p id="f24XgO"><strong>Prediction</strong>: Warriors 124 - Cavaliers 96</p>
https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/2018/6/3/17418240/nba-finals-2018-preview-golden-state-warriors-vs-cleveland-cavs-game-two-lebron-james-steph-curryGreg Thomas2018-06-02T17:00:02-07:002018-06-02T17:00:02-07:00GSoM Roundtable: Reactions from Game 1 of the NBA Finals
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<img alt="2018 NBA Finals - Game One" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/RWEyAjDtf9YruhTynDYWT_MIasE=/0x0:3627x2418/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59934021/964676116.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>After a wild finish in game, the GSoM crew got together to react to what just happened.</p> <p id="UaZS2C">The <a href="https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/">Warriors</a> defeated the Cavs 124-114 in an OT thriller in game 1 of the 2018 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nba-finals">NBA Finals</a>. So much to digest after game 1. The GSoM crew answered some burning questions:</p>
<h3 id="vaPCdi"><strong>Headed into game 1, what kind of outcome were you expecting?</strong></h3>
<p id="RWdFp8"><strong>Charlie: </strong>I thought the Warriors would win big. I thought the Cavs would take Game 2. Hopefully I’m wrong about both. </p>
<p id="cuGNHe"><strong>Nate P</strong>: I assumed a five-game series with LeBron coming up with one huge game in Cleveland to get that one win. I haven’t changed that after last night, but I’m somewhat stunned that Game 1 was close at all, much less an OT affair. </p>
<p id="aOMyLC"><strong>Duby: </strong>I wasn’t trying to have much of an expectation, because these first games are always pretty wonky. I thought the point spread sounded just about right though, and somehow, we ended up right around that margin of victory - I just don’t think anyone would have predicted we got there in the manner we did.</p>
<p id="fe5FPa"><strong>Daniel:</strong> I expected the Warriors to win by double digits. I did not expect the <a href="https://www.fearthesword.com/">Cavaliers</a> to take so many punches to the face and hang in there as long as they did. That team is RESILIENT…. and ultimately doomed.</p>
<p id="pcFkQh"><strong>Tom: </strong>I was definitely expecting a win though I didn’t think the Warriors were going to be able to blow the Cavaliers off the court/knew it would be closer than I would have liked. What I wasn’t expecting was just how great <span>LeBron James</span> was going to be. I mean, I knew he was going to play exceedingly well and keep the Cavaliers in the game but I didn’t expect a “good lord, LeBron” performance to come in the first game. </p>
<p id="ZobJm6"><strong>Greg</strong>: Honestly, I was expecting a complete beat down. Outside of LeBron, the talent disparity is too large. Without Kyrie, it felt like a huge hole was missing. I knew LeBron was going to have something like a 40 point triple double because he’s done it year after year in the Finals. </p>
<p id="fImIEl"><strong>Patrick: </strong>I was expecting the Warriors to come out and lay a dud in Game 1. Coming off an emotionally and physically exhausting rollercoaster of a series, and with everyone expecting a cakewalk in the Finals, the scene was set for a classic Warriors let down. It wasn’t quite as bad as I expected, but if JR Smith wasn’t JR Smith then we’d be having a very different conversation about defensive effort, rebounding, and complacency.</p>
<h3 id="GU9DDH">
<strong>What did you make of the charge at the end of the game that was later reversed and overturned as a blocking foul on </strong><span><strong>LeBron James</strong></span><strong>?</strong>
</h3>
<p id="ULvRnP"><strong>Duby: </strong>Meh, whatever. It was a pretty quick, bang-bang play. I wouldn’t have freaked out either way. That said, it’s pretty clearly a block (to my eyes) because LeBron never stopped moving, and had his body turned. I find the uproar pretty funny, but otherwise I just think it was one of many plays that helped decide the game. </p>
<p id="4OgX4d"><strong>Daniel: </strong>Real time, I was like “KD, you fool!” It looked like a charge for sure to my eyes, as everyone in the arena knew KD was going to go 100 MPH towards the rim, a la Harden or Westbrook would (shout out to Scotty Brooks “Turbo To Rim Training”). But, on the replay, LeBron was clearly still sliding into KD”s path, as opposed to being set and waiting (shout out to Shane Battier’s “How To Take A Charge” DVD that Lebron clearly didn’t watch).</p>
<p id="Kpyi2i"><strong>Tom: </strong>It was the right call to make. That was either a blocking foul on James or a no-call and I would lean towards the former. Though LeBron was outside of the restricted area, the importance of the call and the moment in which it came made the review of it worthwhile in my eyes and it was more than within the referees purview to overturn that call. The way in which Ken Mauer hesistated when he made the initial offensive foul call seemed to show that even he wasn’t sure and thus benefited from a review. It was the right call. Blaming the referees is just a way of finding someone to blame or to desperately try to find some meaning beyond “the Cavaliers let this one get away.”</p>
<div id="b4uw2R">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">To be clear, the officials’ instant replay review of the <a href="https://twitter.com/KDTrey5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KDTrey5</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KingJames?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KingJames</a> block charge play was CORRECT! James was not in a legal guarding position so the contact was a BLOCK. You can’t not make the call just because it’s <a href="https://twitter.com/KingJames?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KingJames</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/espn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@espn</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/firsttake?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#firsttake</a></p>— Stu Jackson (@StuJackson32) <a href="https://twitter.com/StuJackson32/status/1002557931806748672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2018</a>
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<p id="IuWG2j"><strong>Greg</strong>: I thought the play would stand. I hate that type of foul because it’s just a player running to spot to draw a foul. It’s just a way to bait the opponent but it is what it is. When it was overturned, I was shocked. In my opinion, that was the biggest swing in the game. Could have been Cavs up 4 with 10-15 seconds remaining had they gotten the possession and a bucket. </p>
<p id="8WRhEJ"><strong>Patrick: </strong>It was clearly a block. LeBron’s shoulder is turned into KD and his feet weren’t set. If they hadn’t reversed it, it would have been an egregious error that Warriors fans would have been in uproar about. I can understand Cavs fans being a bit upset about it but independent observers should care about getting the call right.</p>
<p id="vv6agj"><strong>Nate P.: </strong>I’m glad someone finally brought up LeBron clearly turning his shoulder into KD — that’s one of those things you learn not to do in high school when you’re trying to draw a charge. I’m sort of stunned this has even become a discussion because we <em>should</em> value getting calls right above all else. </p>
<div id="BSYd5G">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">NBA's Last 2 Minute Report sticks by reversal on KD/LeBron charge/block: "It was confirmed that James was outside the restricted area. Replay showed James was not in a legal guarding position because he was turning his body and moving into Durant when contact occurred."</p>— Marla Ridenour (@MRidenourABJ) <a href="https://twitter.com/MRidenourABJ/status/1002664110138351616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2018</a>
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<h3 id="CUB0mm">
<strong>Imagine you were </strong><span><strong>J.R. Smith</strong></span><strong> at the end of the game, what is currently going through your mind in these finals seconds?</strong>
</h3>
<p id="9VrWac"><strong>Charlie</strong>: To be honest, when I watched J.R. I thought the Cavs had the lead too. He tricked me. I’m thinking, “Damn KD’s box out was weak” or “I probably should have waited until the end of the game to smoke a bowl.” </p>
<p id="2SFWf9"><strong>Duby: </strong>Am I me? Or J.R.? If it’s me, I’d probably go for a quick put back. Even with KD right there, you have to take a shot at getting to the line, at least. Alternatively, Lebron was WIDE open on the top. If there was one thing this game proved, it was “give the ball to Bron.” There were any number of options there, it’s hard to imagine a worse decision in that situation. But If I’m JR Smith, then I would just do what he did. Because this is like my angry dad asking me what I was thinking when I walked around the perimeter of our house kicking in all the screen that covered up the vents. “What were you thinking” is a dumb question, because in that situation, there is no thought - you’re just doing. I feel that’s how JR exists, instead of an ongoing internal monologue, it’s like the sound you hear when you put a seashell to your ear. </p>
<p id="yBzimj"><strong>Tom: </strong>In light of his postgame comments, I could see the logic in Smith bringing the ball out while knowing the score was tied. Putting up a contested shot in the lane with a seven-footer in Durant there to potentially block it? It might have made more sense to bring it out and get it to James with a head of steam (which had been the best Cavaliers offense all game). </p>
<p id="6LsQvH"><strong>Daniel now possessing J.R. Smith’s body: </strong>The Warriors are destined to win, and I am a mere footnote in their great dynastic story. I will do the right thing, and run away with the ball, so that I do not impede their beautiful dominance. They will look back on this and reward me with a minimum contract in the future, and I will continue in the “zany backup shooting guard” role that Brandon Rush, <span>Ian Clark</span>, and Nick “Swaggy P” Young created before me.</p>
<div id="XXERP0">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">JR Smith goes back in his explanation of his execution at the end of Game 1 because he knew the game was tied: “After thinking about it ... I can’t say I was sure of anything at that point”</p>— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) <a href="https://twitter.com/mcten/status/1003011914492870656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2018</a>
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<p id="XbfsfG"><strong>Greg</strong>: If I was JR Smith I am running off the court claiming the victory. “I wanted the game ball. I had the clutch rebound over Durant to seal the victory. Oh wait, what? Oh damn, my bad I thought we were up. My bad LeBron; I just got so excited that everything went into a complete blur. I snatched that rebound and just ran for my life.”</p>
<p id="oWwp3K"><strong>Patrick: </strong>‘To score you have to shoot, to score more you have to shoot more!’ </p>
<div id="qOgymy"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.2493%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UGT1dQHEd7E?rel=0" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no"></iframe></div></div>
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<p id="L451aY">‘No, wait, I’ve been derided as a chucker all my career. Now is my time to prove what I’m really about.’</p>
<h3 id="jYlMya"><strong>Which player were you most impressed with after game 1?</strong></h3>
<p id="KFhxd8"><strong>Charlie:</strong> LeBron. After that, Steph. Steph’s drives to the hoop are so purposeful. His offense and defense were awesome in Game 1. He wants the Finals MVP. </p>
<p id="FlN0Rs"><strong>Le</strong><strong>B</strong><strong>ron: </strong>I’m going to go with Steph Curry here. Say what you will about the light skinned under-sized, “not a true point guard” point guard - dude had an impressive night on both ends of the court. Beyond his individual accolades (29 points (7-14 from deep. 9 assists, 6 rebounds, 4 steals), he was masterful - first to force OT with that driving layup where he got knocked in the head, and then again in overtime. The guy really does make his entire team better, while somehow managing to get his points in when we need them. </p>
<p id="7a6O5y"><strong>Daniel: </strong>Andre Iguodala. Who knew that old man’s defense was the only thing keeping LeBron from dropping 50 in a Finals game!?</p>
<p id="n5obsu"><strong>Tom: </strong>Obviously LeBron was beyond impressive in Thursday night’s game, but I was particularly impressed with Klay Thompson. He left the game with that terrifying injury, came back, and played almost like nothing had happened. Thompson was already dealing with one leg-related injury and then he suffers another one, so you know he’s in a great deal of pain and discomfort. But he played through it and put in an impressive performance and one that the Warriors needed to steal this game. </p>
<p id="k7FCaA"><strong>Greg</strong>: LeBron was playing at an unbelievable level. Even late in the fourth he looked fresh as ever. It was an all time effort but still ended in a loss. What a wasted effort. Other than that, <span>Jordan Bell</span> was solid. His defense on LeBron at times was very impressive. </p>
<p id="TDbDS4"><strong>Patrick: </strong>Got to go with Steph (other than LeBron, who continues to be otherworldly). He was great all the way through, and managed not to wait until the third quarter before dicing fools up. At times I just wanted him to just take over and splash the Cavs into submission, but he did a great job running the whole game and making sure everyone was involved while still playing aggressively himself. A few more games like that and he’ll have himself a nice shiny Finals MVP trophy at last.</p>
<h3 id="Dinjnu"><strong>On the flip side, who were you least impressed with?</strong></h3>
<p id="FkRlKg"><strong>Charlie: </strong>KD. It seems like the guy is searching for his rhythm. We’ve come to expect so much from him and when he doesn’t go for 30 with ease, we get on him. His rebounding though has left a lot to be desired. </p>
<p id="2VRBRl"><strong>Daniel: </strong>Tristan Thompson. Bruh, punching <span>Draymond Green</span>’s face with the ball is literally the last thing you want to do. <span>Green</span> has most likely been replaying that cheap shot over and over in his head, and will probably hit 5 threes next game in a snarling rage.</p>
<p id="ZTY34X"><strong>Duby:</strong> I’m going for a wholesome answer: no one. Not one single player disappointed me, because they all played hard and did whatever they could. Though… I wish maybe Durant would step away from the ISO ball a bit, and I certainly wouldn’t complain if Looney got a little less shy, offensively. Overall though? I thought the team did pretty well. Each player contributed something, and I can’t really come up with any super egregious “wtf!?” plays. </p>
<p id="kONSmz"><strong>Tom: </strong>I think the Durant criticism gets overblown (his numbers reflect a decent game from him, not the clunker that people seem to think it is) but he does need to play better going forward. The ball needs to be in Steph’s hands as much as possible and Durant shouldn’t be initiating the action as much as he is right now. It’s best for the team and allows Durant to play better as well. Those iso plays that everyone hates can be effective, but only if they’re deployed in the correct way and they aren’t right now. That said, I fully expect Durant to make like the Millenium Falcon and fly in during the closing minutes of a game and do something to seal a Warriors win.</p>
<div id="BOCvaX">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Kerr on Kevin Durant: “He knows he didn’t play very well in Game 1. He’s excited for Game 2.”</p>— Connor Letourneau (@Con_Chron) <a href="https://twitter.com/Con_Chron/status/1002998772006191104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2018</a>
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<p id="GoiBuD"><strong>Greg</strong>: Jordan Clarkson. This guy just didn’t seem to know what the hell was going on when in the rotation. I really cannot understand how this guy is getting minutes in the NBA Finals. Can you waive a guy during the NBA Finals?</p>
<p id="4kx3Jy"><strong>Patrick: </strong>No one going with JR?! Guess that’s the nature of the expectations game. Got to say though, KD’s sudden reluctance to box out is strange. He rebounded really well last year but he looks a little out of sorts right now. They have some things still to work through there. Wouldn’t be surprised if Zaza makes a cameo at some point.</p>
<p id="CF1hnm"></p>
https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/2018/6/2/17419872/nba-finals-2018-golden-state-warriors-cleveland-cavaliers-stephen-curry-lebron-james-jr-smithGreg ThomasThomas BevilacquaCharlie StantonNate P.Patrick MurrayDaniel HardeeDuby Dub Dubs2018-05-30T08:17:54-07:002018-05-30T08:17:54-07:00GSoM Roundtable, Part 2: What if Chris Paul never got hurt?
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<img alt="NBA: Playoffs-Houston Rockets at Golden State Warriors" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/cSI8P9LBMluOBk2hjA8ac0_TJoU=/0x0:4647x3098/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59889599/usa_today_10855684.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The GSoM crew debriefs the Western Conference Finals and weighs in on key moments of the series. Part two of our roundtable.</p> <h3 id="t0RRgP"><em>In Part 2 of our roundtable, we take a closer look at a key turning point of the 2018 Western Conference Finals — Chris Paul’s injury — and take a glimpse into the future for the Rockets. Check out Part 1 for more of our thoughts on the roller coaster series between the Rockets and Warriors. </em></h3>
<h3 id="9JSUR8">
<strong>Let’s assume </strong><span><strong>Chris Paul</strong></span><strong> never gets hurt in game 5. How does this series play out?</strong>
</h3>
<p id="McRU7L"><strong>Charlie S</strong>: Given how Paul was playing, I think the <a href="https://www.thedreamshake.com/">Rockets</a> probably win in 7. That said, the <a href="https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/">Warriors</a> are still the Warriors. There are a lot of shots taken in Game 7 that would have never happened had Paul played. </p>
<p id="5nmUYi"><strong>Nate P.:</strong> I agree with Charlie: if Paul doesn’t get hurt in Game 5, I’m definitely thinking the Rockets could have won. However, while I totally acknowledge that that’s a legit question, I also think that if we’re going to talk in counterfactuals about injuries, then we have to look at it both ways: if Paul <em>and</em> <span>Andre Iguodala</span> don’t get injured, I think the Warriors still pull it out in 5. And apparently, Steve Kerr believes the same thing. </p>
<p id="GIaQYm">I don’t disagree that Paul’s injury was an issue, but the series ultimately became a battle of attrition… and in that scenario, what happened is that the Warriors were more easily able to withstand the injury they sustained than the Rockets could theirs. It’s terrible luck, it sucks because I think the series would’ve been substantially different with Paul, but the growing narrative that <em>the Warriors won because the Rockets were injured </em>just erases the fact of <span>Iguodala</span> being out longer and living in a post-fact universe is just not my thing. </p>
<p id="QD2v31"><strong>Daniel:</strong> I refuse to answer this question if in this magical universe where <span>Chris Paul</span>’s body can all of a sudden take the pressures of post season basketball, Andre “Finals MVP and Olympian” <span>Iguodala</span> isn’t magically healthy as well. CP3 and <span>James Harden</span> were a combined 1 for 41 against Iguodala this series. So if we’re talking what ifs, we might as well get Iguodala a fresh knee.</p>
<p id="IzHJPQ">Also, we beat Houston G1 and blew them out by forty-gotdamn-one points in G3 with CP3 on the floor. He’s a good player, but he ain’t scaring nobody with them lucky jumpers. NEXT QUESTION.</p>
<p id="V8Birz"><strong>Charlie</strong>: Note, Daniel predicted a sweep. </p>
<p id="il4Sur"><strong>Daniel</strong>: And the refs cheated us! (that’s what you’re supposed to say when your team fails, right?)</p>
<p id="fj4KBl"><strong>Tom</strong>: I think the series has the same result though it doesn’t look the same way it did. By which I mean the Warriors win in seven, but the way they win and why they win isn’t quite the same (if that makes sense). </p>
<p id="jZh2pc">I also think that we shouldn’t suppose that Paul’s injury was just a fluke but rather as an eventuality. I liked what Ethan Sherwood Strauss wrote for <em>The Athletic</em> after Game 5, that the Warriors forced the burden onto Paul to try to wear him down. It might not have manifested itself as an injury but rather fatigue or ineffectiveness, but in this instance it was an injury. Thus I think seeing it as something random or not part of the narrative misreads things a bit.</p>
<p id="wQklR6"><strong>Greg</strong>: This is going to become one of the biggest what if scenarios in years to come. Chris Paul was playing like his life was on the line in game five. All the momentum was with the Rockets. If Paul was 100%, I think the Warriors would have won game six but lost game seven in Houston. The Rockets missed 37 three pointers and only lost by a margin of nine points. Chris Paul makes the difference and likely cuts into those number of ill advised shots. By the end of game seven, the Rockets were completely gassed. </p>
<p id="NULh2x">What if <span>Draymond Green</span> wasn’t suspended in Game 5? What if Nick Anderson hit those free throws? What if Chris Paul didn’t get hurt? What if the refs didn’t rig that game <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/">Lakers</a> <a href="https://www.sactownroyalty.com/">Kings</a> Game 6? We will never know, but the NBA conspirators will always look back and ponder what would have happened. </p>
<h3 id="cAyqgz">
<strong>The Rockets have a lot of moving parts in the offseason with Chris Paul (UFA), </strong><span><strong>Clint Capela</strong></span><strong> (RFA), </strong><span><strong>Trevor Ariza</strong></span><strong> (UFA), and a few others about to hit free agency. Do you think this team will be back and competing at the same level next year? Or was this team built for all or nothing this year?</strong>
</h3>
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<img alt="NBA: Playoffs-Golden State Warriors at Houston Rockets" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/u3T3Sbf-tU11Bl2Em086CyH4nzM=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/11444699/usa_today_10840523.jpg">
<cite>Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
<figcaption>Lots of decisions to make this off season for the Rockets front office</figcaption>
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<p id="gcVzxq"><strong>Charlie S</strong>: I don’t see LeBron James going to Houston. So I see them bringing the band back together. <span>Capela</span> might be the biggest wildcard here. He’s going to get paid wherever he ends up. </p>
<p id="7cNp5D"><strong>Nate P: </strong>Well, this is where a general manager makes their money...and this is quite a conundrum for Morey. <span>Harden</span> is obviously in the middle of his prime right now, so they have to consider paying whatever is necessary to try again next year -- championship windows don’t open often and you have to maximize the opportunity when they do come around. </p>
<p id="n5VCig">What makes this so tricky is Paul: coming off <em>another</em> injury, how much is he worth to a team that is still short of the Warriors? And what might the market price for his services be? I think those are extremely tough questions to ask and really come down to a fundamental principle of NBA economics: the team willing to pay the most money will set Harden’s market value. The question then becomes whether the Rockets want to continue to invest in him or free up cap room for someone else.</p>
<p id="N14woy"><strong>Daniel: </strong>I hope they bring this exact team back year. They’re quite beatable, and if they’re our top competition out West, we’ll be in the Finals for a fifth straight year. Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to prepare some <a href="https://www.fearthesword.com/">Cavaliers</a> slander for the next week or so. GOOD DAY, SIR.</p>
<p id="RRGlUg"><strong>Charlie</strong>: Note, Daniel PREDICTED A SWEEP. </p>
<p id="haSEQA"><strong>Tom</strong>: I think they have to run it back, though salary cap demands could dictate moving on from a couple players (I wonder how they’ll be able to bring <span>Ariza</span> back and yet maintain depth). I also wonder what kind of deal they give Paul, a great player and yet one racking up the NBA miles and with an injury history. But this was a great Rockets team that had an amazing regular season and pushed the Warriors to the brink while exceeding many of the expectations and assumptions I had about them. They have to run this back.</p>
<p id="5YqpAb"><strong>Greg</strong>: Daryl Morey is a smart GM, but he will need to have to figure out a way to keep Capela, Ariza, Paul, and dump Ryan Anderson. On top of that, they will need some more bench depth to make it through long series like this. With all that money committed to Harden, there are going to be some tough and possibly shocking decisions made this off-season in Houston. </p>
https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/2018/5/30/17407376/nba-2018-playoffs-golden-state-warriors-defeat-houston-rockets-in-game-seven-to-reach-nba-finals-pt2Greg ThomasThomas BevilacquaNate P.Charlie StantonDaniel Hardee2018-05-29T22:00:01-07:002018-05-29T22:00:01-07:00GSoM Roundtable, Part 1: What was the key turning point in the WCF?
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<img alt="Golden State Warriors v Houston Rockets - Game Five" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/lWh2NBSKK1asdjHtjm5dMNahcJA=/190x0:3130x1960/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59889635/962245438.jpg.1527653974.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The GSoM crew debriefs the Western Conference Finals and weighs in on key moments of the series. Part one of our roundtable.</p> <p id="qH3ZKn">The <a href="https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/">Warriors</a> have advanced to the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nba-finals">NBA Finals</a> for a fourth straight year. After a thrilling seven game series, the Golden State of Mind staff took some time to reflect on the Western Conference Finals. Here is part one of our round table: </p>
<h3 id="rpbmUa">
<strong>Now that the </strong><a href="https://www.thedreamshake.com/"><strong>Rockets</strong></a><strong> Warriors series is over, did the series meet or exceed your expectations?</strong>
</h3>
<p id="INJZbO"><strong>Charlie S</strong>: It met my expectations. The Rockets were the better team in the regular season, got unlucky with Paul’s injury and <span>Harden</span> ran out of gas. That’s the price of the Rocket’s style though. The Warriors continued to toy with us and their talent won out in the end. There were so many heroes for the Warriors in the series. Durant in Game 1, Thompson in Game 6, Curry from Game 3 onward. I’ll never forget <span>Jordan Bell</span>’s through-legs-pass to Curry in Game 7.</p>
<p id="De4FtF"><strong>Nate P</strong>: The series met my expectations, but I gained a ton of respect for the Rockets in the process -- though I expected a competitive series, they probably exceeded my expectations in how well they played once Paul went down. I really didn’t think the Rockets would show so much heart in the face of adversity, I expected Harden to fold when things got tough (like after the 41-point loss), and there’s no way in hell I expected PJ Tucker to play as well as he did when his team needed him. That was probably the gutsiest performance we’ve seen from a Western Conference playoff opponent over the last four years, and I really hope these two have a shot to go at it again next year.</p>
<p id="IHeaIk"><strong>Daniel the GoldbloodedKing</strong>: Yeah, I called a sweep, so I would say this series exceeded my expectations. The Rockets’ defense was FOR REAL. Their offense wasn’t as good as advertised though, evidenced by them only scoring over 100 twice in this 7 game series. <span>James Harden</span> was fradulent as advertised though, and Coach Mike D’Antoni is still the same ol’ regular season dynamo coach that keeps comin up juuust short when it matters. But...yeah I didn’t expect them to take this long to be vanquished. Kudos to them.</p>
<p id="Yooio4"><strong>Charlie</strong>: Note, Daniel called for a sweep. </p>
<p id="8H9wWt"><strong>Tom</strong>: I’d say it met my expectations. It wasn’t quite as wild as the 2016 Western Conference Finals against the <a href="https://www.welcometoloudcity.com/">Thunder</a> but it was close to that. The endings of Games 4 and 5, the sloppiness by both teams (while the Warriors played terribly it wasn’t like the Rockets were running away with each game either) takes a little bit of the shine off. But the third quarter of Game 6 and the second half of Game 7 were both pretty magnificent.</p>
<p id="UtKzPr"><strong>Greg</strong>: This series exceeded my expectations; I thought it would go about six games but the Warriors would win with ease. After the first game, I was ready to call the Rockets frauds. They responded by punching us in the mouth in game two. From an entertainment perspective, this was the most entertaining series in the last two years. I really could have done without all the flopping and arm flailing though. </p>
<h3 id="kJyK3B"><strong>What was the key turning point in this series?</strong></h3>
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<img alt="San Antonio Spurs v Golden State Warriors - Game Five" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/q-Gf5m1VIYAnYTcMYxQyn5NSfM0=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/11444601/951733788.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Andre Iguodala missed the last four games of the series</figcaption>
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<p id="KBYKfS"><strong>Charlie S</strong>: Paul’s injury was the key turning point. Within each game, the turning point was each half where the Warriors shifted from an unfocused team, and depending on Durant too often, to a team rooted in constant ball movement with the occasional Durant isolation. </p>
<p id="WCeJZV"><strong>Daniel</strong>: <span>Andre Iguodala</span>’s injury. As Coach Kerr said, it woulda been over in 5 with him there. The Dubs were winning regardless, just had to wait a lil’ longer with Iguodala out.</p>
<p id="DuRj21"><strong>Tom</strong>: I’d point to that third quarter of Game 6. After that first half, the series could have easily been over. The Rockets wanted it more, the Warriors were just too lethargic or in too great of need of <span>Andre Iguodala</span>. Maybe the crown atop the Warriors’ head had become too heavy and thus this season would end in disappointment. But the Warriors did not go gentle into that good night of the NBA offseason and fought back, both in that game and in Game 7 (well, the second half of Game 7 but still…) </p>
<p id="UVA3QK"><strong>Greg</strong>: Once Chris Paul went down, that changed the momentum of the series. The Rockets were running a short rotation already and in the second half of game six and seven, that lack of bodies really affected the team’s stamina and pace. </p>
<p id="PtUOWn">Although the Rockets had the edge in the series up 3-2. Once Paul went down it felt like the series was already over. </p>
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https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/2018/5/29/17407174/nba-2018-playoffs-golden-state-warriors-win-conference-finals-houston-game-seven-chris-paul-injuryGreg ThomasDaniel HardeeNate P.Charlie StantonThomas Bevilacqua2018-05-26T00:00:01-07:002018-05-26T00:00:01-07:00Game 6 Preview: Facing elimination, the Warriors must dig deep
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<img alt="NBA: Playoffs-Houston Rockets at Golden State Warriors" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/JLFcdR84l6uLid_WaYnv2_poeSo=/0x0:5184x3456/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59860671/usa_today_10849089.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>In unfamiliar territory, the Warriors face one of their greatest challenges in an elimination game vs the Rockets at home. </p> <p id="trugcf">Look, if the <a href="https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/">Warriors</a> had one shot, one opportunity to build a dynasty and seize everything they ever wanted as a franchise. One legendary game six moment. Would they capture it or just let it slip?</p>
<p id="fM0MkX"><strong>Throws hoodie on</strong></p>
<p id="Lr6pdm"><strong>Cue the beat</strong></p>
<div id="D6EdH7"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 75.0019%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xFYQQPAOz7Y?rel=0" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="lKMNlY">Klay’s palms are sweaty, Andre’s knees weak, Kevon and Bell’s arms are heavy. There’s vomit on Curry’s jersey already, Sonya Curry’s spaghetti. Steph’s nervous, but on the surface he looks calm and ready, to drop bombs from three, but he keeps on forgettin’ the play Kerr wrote down. The Oracle crowd goes so loud, Draymond opens his mouth to the refs, but the words won’t come out. <span><strong>Chris Paul</strong></span><strong> flops</strong>. The Warrior’s are chokin’, how, all of sudden the media heads are jokin’ now. The game clock runs out, times up, <a href="https://www.thedreamshake.com/">Rockets</a> win, series over, blaow! </p>
<p id="ZdvQpP">Snap back to reality, oh there goes Steph’s court gravity. Oh, there goes Durant, he dunks! He’s so mad, but he won’t give the ball up that easy? No. He won’t have it, he knows his old Oklahoma City ropes. He ISOs. It don’t matter. </p>
<p id="k6Y4Z0">The teams so stacked, Durant knows, if he goes back to the Hamptons, that’s when it’s back to the practice gym again. He better go capture this game six and hope the moment don’t pass him.</p>
<p id="7PIdvD">Dubs better dictate themselves in the gameflow, the pace they must own it, that lead they better never let it go! They only get one shot to force a game seven on the road, do not miss the chance to glow. This opportunity to create a dynasty only comes once in a lifetime!</p>
<h2 id="uWFMnx"><strong>Game Details</strong></h2>
<p id="Bi6OAP"><strong>WHAT:</strong> Rockets vs. Warriors, Game 6 (Rockets lead series 3-2)</p>
<p id="wmGuCo"><strong>WHEN:</strong> Saturday, May 26, 6:00 p.m. PST</p>
<p id="8UUVfh"><strong>WHERE:</strong> Oracle Arena, Oakland, CA</p>
<p id="r5lqoa"><strong>WATCH:</strong> TNT</p>
<p id="U4z23X"><strong>LISTEN: </strong>95.7 the Game</p>
<p id="LUuvTH"><strong>Blog Buddy:</strong> <a href="https://www.thedreamshake.com/"><strong>The Dream Shake</strong></a></p>
<h2 id="dtsIMD">
<span><strong>Chris Paul</strong></span><strong> and </strong><span><strong>Andre Iguodala</strong></span><strong> injury status</strong>
</h2>
<p id="AvJxsI">Although the Rockets have the upper hand in the series with a 3-2 lead, they were dealt a heavy blow when Chris Paul suffered a non contact injury in the last minute of Thursday’s contest in Houston. He has now been ruled out for game six with a hamstring strain.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Rockets star Chris Paul will miss Game 6 of West Finals with a hamstring strain.</p>— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1000049352092602368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2018</a>
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<p id="t4GKhc">It’s unfortunate because this series has been highly competitive and Chris Paul was playing as if his life was on the line in game five. This certainly sways some momentum back to the Warriors especially if they are able to get <span>Andre Iguodala</span> back. It’s still unknown if he will be able to suit up for game six, but his absence has truly been missed.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Is Iggy the X-factor??<br>Warriors this season against the Rockets (including playoffs):<br><br>With Andre Iguodala: 3-1<br>Without Andre Iguodala: 0-4 <a href="https://t.co/Bzqnzsp4aY">pic.twitter.com/Bzqnzsp4aY</a></p>— CBS Sports (@CBSSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBSSports/status/999856428394471424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2018</a>
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<h2 id="kN73Sn"><strong>Why are the Warriors unable to play in their game flow?</strong></h2>
<p id="WOJYUr">Throughout the series, the Warriors have looked out of sorts and off their game. When the Warriors are able to dictate the flow of the game and play comfortable in their style of play, there is not a team that can beat them in a best of seven series. Problem is, they have always had trouble when they have had to adapt to the other teams’ style of play. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Warriors passing numbers vs Rockets this season:<br>-October 17 = 313<br>-January 4 = 312<br>-January 20 = 278<br>-Game 1 = 283<br>-Game 2 = 272<br>-Game 3 = 268<br>-Game 4 = 269</p>— Drew Shiller (@DrewShiller) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrewShiller/status/999761270369746944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2018</a>
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<p id="7N5atJ">Taking a look at the passing stats for the series and during the regular season series, the trend has dipped just about every game. That number for game five was just 257. The ball isn’t moving and the team’s assists are down. During the season, the team averaged in the range of 300 passes a game and we were seeing assist totals closer to the range of high 20’s to 30’s. Now the Warriors are barely notching 15 - 20 assists per game. </p>
<p id="Svmyij">Much of that can be attributed to the defensive adjustments the Rockets have made that have constricted the Warriors ball movement. </p>
<p id="eMrMJR">Is that truly due to Houston altering the pace or the team finally hitting a wall because of physical and mental fatigue? It could be a mix of both, but their late game execution has clearly shown indications of cracks in the armor. </p>
<h2 id="sLTdSd"><strong>Are we in store for an epic game six in Oakland? </strong></h2>
<p id="NHp5jm">This marks the first time the Warriors have trailed in a series in exactly two years. The Warriors faced this same instance when down 3-2 heading into a hostile <a href="https://www.welcometoloudcity.com/">Oklahoma City Thunder</a> arena and came out victorious off a virtuoso performance from <span>Klay Thompson</span>. </p>
<p id="kvyaBh">While the absence of Chris Paul will play a big factor for the Rockets, the Warriors cannot bank on the Rockets gifting the Warriors a win. <span>Eric Gordon</span> will likely be inserted into the starting lineup in replace of Paul and proved he was more than capable to function efficiently in that role during the season when Paul was out for over a month. </p>
<p id="5yaQN9"><span>Gordon</span> has arguably been the Rocket’s most consistent player this series, so there is no reason to believe that he won’t come out firing in game six. </p>
<p id="L3Le0z">The Warriors finally find themselves in a vulnerable position as they have been pushed outside of their comfort zone. Nevertheless, when faced with adversity and their backs against the wall, these are the moments when legendary performances will be noted in the basketball history books. </p>
<p id="bO39p5">As fans, these are the moments we live for. Four game sweeps are nice and far less stressful but they are often forgotten as time goes on. </p>
<h2 id="7O4mpI"><strong>If you are headed to Oracle arena for game six </strong></h2>
<p id="pJoVhg">Cheer with all your might; make sure the team hears you. Whether you are at a bar, at home, or listening from your car radio, rise as one and keep the faith alive.</p>
<p id="vxcISw">Dubnation assemble!!!</p>
<p id="EGiN4y"><strong>Game prediction</strong>: Warriors 115 - Rockets 108</p>
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https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/2018/5/26/17393236/nba-playoffs-2018-preview-golden-state-warriors-houson-rockets-game-6-andre-iguodala-chris-paulGreg Thomas2018-05-17T12:00:02-07:002018-05-17T12:00:02-07:00Warrior Wonder: Kevin Durant is the lone bright spot after an ugly loss
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<img alt="Golden State Warriors v Houston Rockets - Game Two" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/MSTKgI1iJmyDrjX_GhlPQOlNEpo=/0x0:4116x2744/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59763125/959329640.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Nothing was falling the Warriors way in game 2. Kevin Durant did his best to attempt to keep Dubs in the game.</p> <p id="fXKI74">The <a href="https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/">Warriors</a> escaped Houston with a 1-1 series tie headed back to Oakland for game three on Sunday. Between game one and game two the results couldn’t have been more different as the <a href="https://www.thedreamshake.com/">Rockets</a> adjusted their game plan. The one key constant in both games was <span>Kevin Durant</span> as he poured in 37 points in game one and another 38 points in game two. </p>
<p id="fD3maE">With the missed defensive assignments and the numerous turnovers, the Warriors kept digging themselves into a bigger hole. Although it was a poor overall effort by the team, <span>Kevin Durant</span> was forced to play hero ball and get buckets where buckets were scarce.</p>
<p id="k7OWe0">With a 38 point performance on an efficient 13-22 FGs, <span>Kevin Durant</span> was the game 2 Warrior Wonder.</p>
<h2 id="gbGmgU"><strong>Why hello my old friend</strong></h2>
<p id="kMlUWp">Sometimes it is strange to look back and remember that Kevin Durant and <span>James Harden</span> both started their career on the same <a href="https://www.welcometoloudcity.com/">Oklahoma City Thunder</a> squad together. They are both prolific scorers and two of the most unguardable players in the NBA. </p>
<p id="QGh3IY">Time and time again we see <span>Harden</span> cross opposing players into oblivion. Here we see Harden get a little taste of his own medicine. Durant crosses Harden over so bad that it looks like there was glitch in the video as Harden bites hard left. Durant then takes it to the rim for layup over the outstretched arms of <span>Clint Capela</span>. </p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Kevin Durant crosses to the rim! <br><br>8 in the 1st for KD on <a href="https://twitter.com/NBAonTNT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NBAonTNT</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DubNation?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DubNation</a> <a href="https://t.co/hMglkFaDNB">pic.twitter.com/hMglkFaDNB</a></p>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/996923338458091520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2018</a>
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<h2 id="F20wx7"><strong>A little help would be nice</strong></h2>
<p id="0axeNO">While game one was a collective team effort, game two was a bit of the opposite. The Rockets basically allowed Durant to go ahead and try to wield his team back in the game singlehandedly. To the Warriors discredit, no one was able to put together a good game to help him out. Durant collectively outscored all other starters. </p>
<div id="U1dc1t">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Kevin Durant outscored the other four Warriors starters 38-35 in Game 2 vs the Rockets <a href="https://t.co/zJCZUWAGRu">pic.twitter.com/zJCZUWAGRu</a></p>— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNStatsInfo/status/996959560643596289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2018</a>
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<p id="OQhiSJ">There was a clip after the game one press conference where Harden was asked how the team plans to stop Durant to which he had no way to answer that question as he stared in befuddlement. Well the funny thing is, it seems as though the Rockets said let’s let Durant get his and just scheme around the other guys. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">“How are you guys going to stop Kevin Durant in game two?” (via <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCSWarriors?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NBCSWarriors</a>) <a href="https://t.co/lDEa8MBmZB">pic.twitter.com/lDEa8MBmZB</a></p>— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) <a href="https://twitter.com/SLAMonline/status/996248293607952384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2018</a>
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<p id="0r1CbS">Though Durant’s game was impressive on the surface, it may have just been empty calories as the team ended up losing by 22. Durant posted an ugly -28 while on the floor which happened to be his worst plus minus during his Warriors tenure. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Kevin Durant was a -28 in Game 2, his lowest +/- in an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBAPlayoffs?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBAPlayoffs</a> game since joining the Warriors. <a href="https://t.co/7B63Bn6iyW">https://t.co/7B63Bn6iyW</a> <a href="https://t.co/WTtWsowmmF">pic.twitter.com/WTtWsowmmF</a></p>— StatMuse (@statmuse) <a href="https://twitter.com/statmuse/status/996956968953708544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2018</a>
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<h2 id="yL5BlK"><strong>Looking towards game 3</strong></h2>
<p id="lmxi7A">The Warriors will have a few days to rest and get ready for game 3 on Sunday. Steve Kerr and staff will have some time to scheme and make adjustments after looking at the game 2 tape. The keys to the game will be turnovers and pace. </p>
<p id="yai5xZ">Defensive intensity also sticks out as there were some missed assignments as Rockets had some wide open lanes to the rim. </p>
<p id="w99jBz">Potential candidates Warrior Wonder standouts for game 3 bounce back game:</p>
<p id="NVgpGp"><span><strong>Andre Iguodala</strong></span> - Kerr is gonna keep sticking with the death lineup and <span>Iguodala</span> can really step up on perimeter defense on <span>Eric Gordon</span> and PJ Tucker. </p>
<p id="CRNfgP"><span><strong>Stephen Curry</strong></span> - Awake from your slumber, sleeping giant. It is time to unleash the flamethrower. </p>
<p id="INJ8FL"><span><strong>Kevon Looney</strong></span> - He’s been fairly good defensively this postseason. He could potentially spark the defense and force some key turnovers. Sneaky sleeper for game three Warrior Wonder. </p>
<p id="80inub"><span><strong>Klay Thompson</strong></span> - <span>Thompson</span> has been great for most of the postseason, especially in games <span>Curry</span> had missed. A few games he has had a clunker but those have been more of the anomaly. I expect <span>Thompson</span> to have big bounce back game at home.</p>
<p id="LX9c1F"><span><strong>Draymond Green</strong></span> - Would like to see a similar defensive effort to game one. If <span>Green</span> brings the defensive intensity, the rest of the team will follow. </p>
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https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/2018/5/17/17363834/nba-playoffs-2018-warriors-highlights-kevin-durant-lose-game-2-rockets-james-harden-and-chris-paulGreg Thomas2018-05-13T15:00:02-07:002018-05-13T15:00:02-07:00Top 10 things to look for in the Western Conference Finals
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<img alt="Houston Rockets v Golden State Warriors" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/BytuvHw8I3ngDEHRTGD1GZWoAZA=/1x0:5125x3416/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59716641/862598470.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>With the Rockets and Warriors set to square off on Monday, it’s time to dig deeper into things to keep an eye out for in this series.</p> <h3 id="JFqRLP"><strong>Phantom Fouls</strong></h3>
<p id="ru9LDj">With a ton of superstar players in this loaded Western Conference Finals showdown, we are bound to see some phantom foul calls. These are typically foul calls awarded to superstars when there clearly was no contact on the play. There could be some conspiracy to this in that phantom fouls get called to sway the momentum to keep the games competitive. </p>
<p id="499in1">In any case, get ready for some cheap fouls!</p>
<h3 id="mNyRqp"><strong>Attack on the nether regions</strong></h3>
<p id="2EXEfV">We’re talking about an all out attack on the groin area. There is a key matchup here that collects two of the most well known players when it comes to nut punching and kicking. With <span>Draymond Green</span> and <span>Chris Paul</span> on the same floor in a high stakes series, we are going to see some hand and leg to groin combat. <span>Chris Paul</span> has been known for years for his punching accuracy to the family jewels.</p>
<p id="xqK4Mm">Is it intentional, or some sort of weird reflex reaction? Here is a play from a few years back where Chris Paul tries to execute the give and go...or shall we say the give and groin. Best way to stop a lengthy defender in his tracks is to humble them. </p>
<div id="3H5FwD"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.2493%;"><iframe src="https://gifs.com/player/chris-paul-nut-puncher-mQjpkp" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="z6dUJ2">On the other side we have <span>Draymond Green</span> who currently holds the heavy weight title of nut kicker extraordinaire. It was just two years ago in the Western Conference Finals where <span>Green</span> became known for his “knee jerk reactions” against Steven Adams. Green unleashed the <a href="https://www.welcometoloudcity.com/">Thunder</a> on the man from down under. </p>
<p id="wFKjOT">Watch out <span>Clint Capela</span>!</p>
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<p id="FSlFIY">Let’s set an over under for hits to the groin in the WCF:</p>
<p id="JUZlvD">Punches to the groin: +1.5</p>
<p id="iWU8ld">Kicks to the groin: +1.0</p>
<h3 id="ZnB1DD"><strong>Flopping</strong></h3>
<p id="GnM4NF">The Merriam Webster dictionary defines the word <strong>flop </strong>as such:</p>
<p id="eVF4GR"><em>: to swing or move loosely </em></p>
<p id="3RdT51"><em> : to throw or move oneself in a heavy, clumsy, or relaxed manner</em></p>
<p id="wAVBkO">Flopping in the NBA has become somewhat of an art and the <a href="https://www.thedreamshake.com/">Rockets</a> happen to have the Pablo Picasso & Leonardo da Vinci of flopping. </p>
<p id="feTU7f">There are different methods to this art of flopping. Before this series starts, let’s look a few methods:</p>
<p id="w5BEP1"><strong>Exhibit A: The double flop</strong></p>
<p id="kokv3a">Not intending to flop but going with the flow to blend in. We all succumb to peer pressure. </p>
<div id="BBKNka"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.2493%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IdEvw-Sz1H4?rel=0" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="UeshU5"><strong>Exhibit B: Making your case </strong></p>
<p id="WSkcqR">Making the moment highly more dramatic, just for the hell of it.</p>
<div id="vnW98h"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.2493%;"><iframe src="https://gifs.com/player/stephen-curry-flops-in-game-1-of-2015-wcf-vs-rockets-l5goVJ" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="gbhORd"><strong>Exhibit C: Targeting vulnerable players</strong></p>
<p id="SQYkFy">When they go high, we go low.</p>
<div id="dIwd2i"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.2493%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hcxXGPDC1Gs?rel=0" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no"></iframe></div></div>
<h3 id="81MBEj"><strong>Technical Fouls</strong></h3>
<p id="gDCQZl">There will be a lot of emotion involved in this contest. Neither team likes one another and it is going to get chippy at times. We have some gritty players from both squads and if things get testy, expect some T’s to get doled out. </p>
<p id="OAHHsP">Over/under on total technical fouls in series:</p>
<p id="ZhE3Qe">Technical Fouls: +4.5</p>
<h3 id="4EmZWG"><strong>Controversial Calls</strong></h3>
<p id="f2PyrD">Somehow, someway I have a feeling that there will be some very notable controversial call that will decide a key game in this series and potentially swing the momentum of the series. The <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nba-playoffs">NBA playoffs</a> is live drama at it’s peak and with all the chips on the table, some missed call or terrible foul will decide a game. </p>
<h3 id="ojPNVD"><strong>Point Guard duel</strong></h3>
<p id="9734aG">Let’s just put it out there, Chris Paul hates <span>Stephen Curry</span> and the <a href="https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/">Warriors</a> and he’s been waiting for this moment since he forced his way out of Los Angeles. Paul and <span>Curry</span> have been well connected through their teams respective rises over the last several years. While the <a href="https://www.clipsnation.com/">Clippers</a> attempted to build a title contender, Curry and the Warriors rose to the top and seized the throne. </p>
<p id="gp3BqD">Curry also had one of most unforgettable crossovers on Paul in his own arena that will forever be ingrained into Paul’s memories. This will be a highly contested key matchup as Paul is out for vengeance. </p>
<div id="syy1b4"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.2493%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/S0c_VnwomOU?rel=0" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no"></iframe></div></div>
<h3 id="NQtJEE"><strong>No Mark Jackson calling the games</strong></h3>
<p id="1hJ99i">Oh thank God! This series will be covered by TNT so we will be spared from Jackson’s bitter commentary for at least one series. The trade off is that we will have to hear more of Charles Barkley during the pre/post game shows as well as the half time show. Well, you can’t win them all. </p>
<h3 id="LECPc2"><strong>Tempo</strong></h3>
<p id="UkWEXu">Both of these teams run at a frenetic pace so we should see a high paced affair. Typically the Warriors tend to succeed when the other team’s are forced to play at their tempo. </p>
<h3 id="bF1Tgq"><strong>Isolations</strong></h3>
<p id="vC5wyL">The Rockets run the most </p>
<p id="dhzvCG">ISO heavy offense in the NBA and are just about dead last is passing, which seems odd with <span>James Harden</span> and Chris Paul leading the squad. The Warriors on the other hand strive off of spacing and passing and finding the optimal shot opportunity. The styles of play between the two squads couldn’t be more different. The teams may both shoot a high volume of three pointers, but the Rockets are more spot-up shooters while the Warriors are more catch and shoot. </p>
<p id="oxFhNV">With the ISO heavy play, I would be interested to see who will have the ball in their hand when the games are tight and the Rockets need a bucket. </p>
<h3 id="MDGXBw"><strong>Bench rotations</strong></h3>
<p id="LpQ1hW">As teams get deeper into the playoffs, we tend to see coaches tighten the rotations to a 8 or 9 man rotation. Outside of the starters, the key players off the bench should be:</p>
<p id="JiqvXo">Rockets - <span>Eric Gordon</span>, <span>Gerald Green</span>, <span>Nene Hilario</span></p>
<p id="zg6644">Warriors - <span>Kevon Looney</span>, <span>Andre Iguodala</span>, <span>Quinn Cook</span>, <span>Shaun Livingston</span></p>
<p id="9yCfQO">Steve Kerr decided to be bold and start the Hampton Five lineup or the modified death lineup to seal game five against the <a href="https://www.thebirdwrites.com/">Pelicans</a>. With <span>Clint Capela</span> on the other end, I could see Kerr going back to starting <span>JaVale McGee</span> to combat his length. </p>
https://www.goldenstateofmind.com/2018/5/13/17346980/nba-playoffs-2018-golden-state-warriors-houston-rockets-western-conference-finals-stephen-curryGreg Thomas