The Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors are tied 1-1 entering a crucial Game 3 of the NBA Finals, with the winner poised to grab a firm hold on the series. Here are four keys to the game that will determine the winner:
1) Can Golden State shoot better from three-point range?
Golden State shot just 37 percent from long range in Game 1 and a measly 22 percent in Game 2. The Warriors use the long ball as the biggest weapon in their offense, shooting over 40 percent from long range during the season. They need to get back to shooting that well – or better – for them to win Game 3.
2) Will the Warriors figure out a way to slow down LeBron James?
This is a monumental task, but Golden State HAS to limit LeBron James’ effectiveness. He’s averaging 41.5 points, 12 rebounds, and 8.5 assists through the first two games of the Finals and is carrying the Cavs on his back. The Warriors have limited his efficiency as he’s shooting just 29/72 in the series, but they have to lessen his overall impact on the game.
3) Will Stephen Curry have a bounce back game?
Curry’s atrocious 5/23 shooting – including 2/15 from three-point land – in Game 2 can be chalked up to an off night, but his 0/8 shooting stats while being guarded by Matthew Dellavedova is troubling. Every team struggles when their best player is struggling, and Curry is the engine that drives Golden State’s high-powered offense. He needs to bounce back in the big way and play like the MVP for the Warriors to win.
4) Can Cleveland's role players continue to produce?
Matthew Dellavedova and Timofey Mozgov played extremely well in Game 2, and were able to take enough of the load off of LeBron James. While those two guys don't necessarily have to step up again, Cleveland does need to get good games from multiple role players for them to pull off another victory.
PREDICTION
Warriors win 104-98
Cleveland's defense has been the difference in the series so far, but Golden State has also missed a bunch of shots they normally make. I think the Cavs performance in Game 2 was more of a "last stand" with everyone counting them out than a sign of things to come, and with the Warriors determined to rebound from the loss, they'll pull this one out in another close game.
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