The Golden State Warriors are just one win away from winning the franchise's first NBA title in 40 years. Here are four things they need to do to win the championship in Game 6:
4) Stephen Curry needs to dominate
Curry’s 37-point night on Sunday was spectacular, especially considering how efficient he was in providing such critical output. Curry was 13 of 23 from the field and 7 of 13 from deep, adding four dimes and a +24 plus/minus when he was on the court. This is the Steph we know and love, and if he sticks around, this series could mirror the Memphis series with G.S. closing things out with three straight wins.
3) Continue to get key minutes from the supporting cast
When the Warriors were struggling early in the series, it was because Golden State’s role players weren’t producing. Draymond Green couldn’t make anything, and him and Harrison Barnes looked scared whenever they had the ball in their hands. Critics were saying that the moment was too big for the two third-year players, but they combined for 24 points and 19 rebounds in Game 5 – and made several key plays in the second half. If they can continue to contribute, Golden State will win the series.
2) Use small ball to dictate tempo
Golden State changed the series by going small with Andre Iguodala in the starting lineup, and Cleveland countered with a small lineup of their own. Timofey Mozgov played just nine minutes in Game 5 as Tristan Thompson and LeBron James spent most of the game at center. However, the Warriors still dictated the tempo of the game, outscoring the Cavs 18-3 in fast break points – which proved to be the difference in the game.
1) Andre Iguodala needs to limit LeBron James
James’ historic Games 1, 2, 3 were the stuff nightmares are made of, but the use of Andre Iguodala as an in-pocket defender turned the tide in Thursday’s Game 4. Even before he bashed his head into a camera, LeBron was forced to settle for Dirk Nowitzki-light fadeaways and contested jumpers that had no business going up. LeBron got back to dominating the game offensively in Game 5, and nearly carried the Cavs to another victory. If Iggy can blanket James and the Warriors give timely help on switches and double teams, the Warriors will have Game 6 in hand.
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