Golden State Warriors: 3 keys for Game 2 vs. Cavaliers
By Ryan Piers
3. Defend the paint
Everyone expected LeBron James to dominate Game 1. Few expected him to erupt for a playoff career-high 51 points. Especially formidable off the dribble, James punished the Warriors down low.
He battered defenders with size, driving with reckless abandon as he shot 12-for-18 in the paint. James was 9-for-10 in the restricted area.
Andre Iguodala’s injury left Golden State down a premier defender. Unable to utilize the “Death Lineup,” that relies on speed and perimeter tenacity to keep opposing offenses at bay, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr opted to start the long but lean Kevon Looney at center. He was no match for a penetrating James, as LeBron abused the feeble rim protector and the rest of the Dubs on 9-of-10 shooting in the first quarter.
Recognizing the mismatch, Kerr delegated minutes to Shaun Livingston, hoping he would at least have the foot speed to keep up with James. That option also backfired.
You can look at Golden State’s win and say “no harm, no foul.” Yes, LeBron dropped 51 points, mostly in the paint, but Golden State won. All good, right?
The ease with which James maneuvered to the rim causes serious alarm. Adjustments must be made in Game 2, potentially meaning (gulp) rim protector JaVal McGee sees more floor time. Jordan Bell needs to be a more imposing defensive threat as well. Otherwise, LeBron may be in for another mammoth night.