2017 NBA Finals: 5 things to watch for ahead of Game 1
By Evan Dyal
Turnovers and Rebounds
It’s hard to find weaknesses on the one of the best teams of all-time, but if there are any it’s turnovers and rebounds. Golden State still turns it over a fair amount, and Cleveland will have to capitalize on almost all of them to win.
In this year’s playoffs, the Dubs have been better taking care of the basketball, as their turnover percentage has gone down from 13.2 to 12.5. For rebounds, Golden State was ninth in the regular season, so way better than people gave them credit for. They have been even better in the playoffs.
These are minor weaknesses, but Cleveland in the playoffs has a slightly better turnover percentage and rebound rate. They will have to be better at both to win this series. Tristan Thompson on the offensive glass will be critical. Giving Cleveland extra possessions, and slowing down the pace will be key for Cleveland. Cleveland still does need to run selectively though, especially off turnovers.
Speaking of pace, Golden State in this year’s playoffs has played at a pace of 102.6 compared to a much slower 97.7 pace for Cleveland. Rebounds and turnovers are key at dictating pace. If Cleveland can win those two categories, they can dictate the pace and thus give them a better chance to win the series.