3 Things The Cavs Need To Do To Win Game 1 vs. Atlanta

The Cleveland Cavaliers are just four wins away from making the second trip to the NBA Finals in franchise history, but need to overcome the Atlanta Hawks in the Eastern Conference Finals. Here are three things the Cavs need to do to win Game 1 of the series:

1) LeBron James needs to carry the Cavs

Kyrie Irving has been severely hampered all postseason by left knee tendonitis and a right foot strain (which he tweaked in Game 6 against the Chicago Bulls), and with Kevin Love already being out for the remainder of the postseason, almost all of the load has been placed on LeBron James’ back. He seems to understands that he has this responsibility now, so look for him to assert himself early in Game 1.

2) Play great perimeter defense

Atlanta's offense is predicated on ball movement designed to create open shots from three-point range or driving lanes, both of which could be neutralized with solid defensive rotations. It will be important for Cleveland to stay disciplined on that end of the floor - look for Iman Shumpert and Matthew Dellavedova to see more time on the court because of their defensive prowess.

3) Own the transition game

Even without Love and an injured Kyrie Irving, the Cavs are still at their best when they’re able to get out and run in transition. Atlanta likes to play fast as well, but their pace comes from turnovers instead of quick offense. Owning transition would allow the Cavs to control the tempo of the game while limiting the Hawks' easy baskets, which would ultimately lead to a Cleveland victory.

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