Golden State Warriors forward Kevin Durant really had it going in last night’s 113-91 victory over the defending champion Cleveland Cavaliers. In his 38 minutes of playing time in Game 1 of the NBA Finals, the former Texas Longhorn racked up 38 points (14-of-26 from the field, 3-of-6 from downtown), eight assists, and eight rebounds.
Time and time again, the Cavs, who gave up 20 turnovers in last night’s loss, allowed Durant to drive to the hoop — often times uncontested.
During his post-game media availability, LeBron James, who finished with 28 points (9-of-20 from the field, 2-of-6 from beyond the arc), 15 rebounds, and eight assists, was asked what stood out the most from last night’s game. The King offered a simple yet respectful response.
Via Nathaniel Cline of Cleveland.com:
“K.D.,” James quickly replied. “I mean, you take one of the best teams that we had ever assembled last year, that we saw in the regular season and in the post-season, and then in the off-season you add a high-powered offensive talent like that and a great basketball IQ like that, that’s what stands out. I mean, it’s no if, ands, or buts. It is what it is. We got to figure out how to combat that, which is going to be a tough challenge for us. But that’s what stands out.”
Game 2 is set for Sunday at 8:00 p.m. on ABC, right back inside Oracle Arena. There is no doubt that Cavs head coach Tyronn Lue will have his players in the film room today. We’ll just have to wait and see what adjustments will be made.