Cleveland Cavaliers: 5 keys to beating Warriors in 2018 NBA Finals
4. Withstand the third quarter run
During Golden State’s run to the Finals, it’s become difficult to take any stock in their first half of play, as no deficit has appeared to large for it to overcome in the third quarter.
Take Game 7 against the Houston Rockets.
Down 11 heading into halftime, the Warriors appeared to be outmatched in every facet, as Houston dominated with their new-found physicality.
It didn’t take long for the tides to turn, with Curry scoring 14 in the frame as Golden State outscored the Rockets 33-15 in the third quarter, coasting their way to the Finals.
The Warriors strike again in the third quarter, outscoring the Rockets by 18. Golden State is plus-130 in third quarters this postseason, the best overall scoring margin in any quarter for a team in the playoffs during the shot-clock era. That includes plus-68 in the West finals.
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) May 29, 2018
Whether ahead or behind, all that matters for the Cavaliers is that third quarter.
Allowing Golden State to build momentum heading into the crucial final frame is swimming in dangerous waters, especially if it accompanies a double-digit lead.
Holding off an impending onslaught at the hands of this team is easier said than done, but that third quarter run has repeatedly changed the complexion of games in favor of the Warriors, who are a +130 in third quarters in the playoffs (the next closest team is +38) and were a +371 in regular season third quarters (next closest was +172).
For Cleveland to be within striking distance by the time the fourth quarter comes around bodes well for its chances at a victory, as they could possibly ride LeBron’s greatness all the way to the finish line.