Golden State Warriors: 5 Keys For Game 3 vs. Cavaliers

4. Bench Production

Through the first two games of this series, Golden State’s depth has put Cleveland’s to shame. The Warriors’ second unit has outscored the Cavs’ reserves by a massive 85-40 margin and boasts an impressive +36.5 net rating.

With Shaun Livingston and Leandro Barbosa shooting a combined 21-for-26 from the field, not to mention Andre Iguodala giving LeBron James problems on both ends of the floor, the Cavs will be hoping this trend of bench domination ends when the series shifts back to Cleveland.

Everyone knows that role players are more confident at home than they are on the road, especially in the playoffs. They feed off the energy of the home crowd, they’re more comfortable in an arena where they play 41 times a year and they just play harder/better in general.

On the road, Livingston has to continue hitting those turnaround jumpers over shorter defenders. Barbosa has to bring the same energy and transition opportunities he’s been creating. Iggy has to turn LeBron into a shooter and continue dissecting Cleveland’s defense with his passing and his poise.

Even Festus Ezeli has to be ready for action in limited time, especially if Bogut gets in foul trouble.

Expecting the Warriors’ bench to continue averaging 42.5 points per game is unrealistic, but the Dubs need their role players to contribute in a hostile environment.

Next: No. 3