NBA Finals: 4 burning questions ahead of Warriors-Raptors

Do the Warriors actually need Kevin Durant to win?

Ever since Kevin Durant went down with a calf strain in Game 5 of the Warriors’ second-round series against the Houston Rockets, the Dubs have been on an absolute tear. They have yet to lose in the five games Durant has missed which has caused a lot of people to speculate if this Golden State team is actually better without their best player and if they even need him in their upcoming Finals series against the Raptors.

However, heading into the NBA Finals, you want as many weapons as possible and KD is arguably the most lethal offensive weapon currently walking the planet earth. Say what you will about Golden State’s style of play with Durant in the lineup compared to without him but there is no denying that KD is the ultimate bailout option.

Whenever the Dubs are struggling and are not hitting shots, they can just give the ball to number 35 and say “get us a bucket, please”.

This may stagnate the offence a little more than when Steph is the man but it will ultimately mean that even in games where the Splash Brothers are struggling, the Warriors can still compete and win.

It’s because of this that I think they do need KD back on the court in this series. And it’s not just his scoring that will be needed. Having Durant back would also mean Steve Kerr has another body to throw at Kawhi Leonard on the defensive end which is obviously going to be a key in these Finals.