Steven Adams controls the paint
While so much attention was given to the Thunder’s Big 3, they had another important player show up in Steven Adams.
Adams was a difference-maker in the middle for the Thunder. He controlled the paint on both ends of the court and had a great game. Adams shot 12-of-13 from the field, with his only miss coming on a 3-point attempt. He finished the game with 25 points, adding 10 rebounds with one assist and one block.
The Cavaliers had no answer for Adams in the middle. Love would have had trouble containing him as well, but at least his rebounding prowess would have made it more difficult for Adams to operate inside. Tristan Thompson had a solid game with nine points, seven rebounds and three assists off the bench, but he was no match for Adams.
The man in the middle has been an integral part of the Thunder’s success and arguably their most consistent player this season, and that continued against the Cavaliers. Adams has settled into his role and is having his best season of his career.