2019 NBA Finals: 5 takeaways from Game 1

5. The Warriors’ bench wasn’t their biggest problem

The Dubs’ bench — particularly that Steph Curry-less lineup that usually begins the second quarter — was a major concern heading into this series against a Toronto team with a lot more depth than any of the Cleveland Cavaliers squads Golden State faced in the last four Finals.

That wasn’t as much of an issue in Game 1. Most of the Dubs’ reserves exited the game as a +2 midway through the second period. DeMarcus Cousins only scored two points from the free throw line, but he moved the ball well.

Quinn Cook chipped in six quick points in six minutes, Shaun Livingston was a steadying presence on both ends early on, and even with Jonas Jerebko‘s best impression at a Carleton heave on a long 3-point attempt, the Dubs generally survived the bench minutes.

Steve Kerr gave six guys minutes off the bench in Game 1 and they combined for 36 points. Toronto’s second unit only put up 25 points among four players. Kevon Looney had the worst plus/minus of any bench player, and he was only a -4. Alfonzo McKinnie even finished as a +4.

No, the Dubs’ biggest problem was how badly the starters were outplayed. If that changes moving forward, and Golden State’s second unit stays strong like it did in Game 1, this series could shift dramatically.