My takeaways from Game 2:
Cavaliers:
- Cavs were GREAT in the first half, non-existent in the 2nd. Their defense was so much better than game 1. LeBron stepped up, Kevin Love stepped up, the bench stepped up. But the score was much higher than it should've been come half-time, far closer to what is a typical Warriors' first half. And sure enough, in the 3rd quarter, the Cavs just ran out of gas.
- Kyrie showed glimpses of his greatness, but couldn't find his jumper for the most part. 19 points on 8 of 23 shooting. Give all the credit in the world to Klay Thompson, he was great defensively and made it very tough for Kyrie to establish a consistent rhythm offensively. He should be just fine come Game 3 with the home crowd behind him.
- LeBron James' greatness cannot be denied. Triple Double on 66% shooting and only 4 turnovers, he was much better today than he was in Game 1. It just wasn't enough.
Warriors:
- Klay Thompson has found his shot. 24 points. 8 for 12. 4 for 7 from three point range. He was trying to force it at times, putting the Warriors' lead in jeopardy in the process, he needs to be smarter and more patient in Game 3, but overall, he has found his rhythm again. He is out of his slump, and Cleveland will have their hands full defensively.
- Another incredible performance from Kevin Durant. 33 points. 13 rebounds. 6 assists. 3 steals. 5 blocked shots. An all-around masterpiece from him. Even better than Game 1. He is showing that he is DONE playing 2nd fiddle to LeBron and is doing everything to make his case that it's HIS time now.
- Cleveland just got STEPH'D! As great as LeBron and Durant were tonight, I think Steph stole the show. What did I tell you guys about Stephen Curry? He's the most important player in this series, and he's my pick for Finals MVP. During the first half, the Cavs were clicking on all cylinder and really bothered the Warriors, forcing them into turnovers, (8 for Steph). And Steph didn't shoot the ball well. But, great players find a way. And Steph, there's something special about him where he can dominate and change the complexion of the game by just having him out on the floor. Just like Michael, Kobe, LeBron, and K.D. before him. Getting himself a Triple Double. And if there is one play that can define this entire series so far, it's Steph putting LeBron on skates the way he did. Holy Mother of God. Not even LeBron is immune to Stephenitis, and he got a severe case of it on that play. The Cavs and their fans should be very concerned. This is the REAL Stephen Curry. And he is back with a vengeance for last year!
Now, the series shifts to Cleveland. The Cavs need to find answers and FAST. I think they'll take Game 3, by a comfortable margin I believe. 10-15 points, to get themselves back into the series. And Game 4 can go either way.