One of the storylines that makes the NBA Finals between the Golden State Warriors and the Boston Celtics so compelling is the dynasty talk.
The Warriors represent the new dynasty, trying to win their fourth title in eight seasons. And with just a tiny bit of fortune — What if Draymond Green doesn’t get suspended for Game 5 in 2016 or Klay Thompson suffer a torn ACL in 2019? — we could be talking about the Warriors going for their sixth title in eight seasons after a run of five straight titles.
Meanwhile, the Celtics won 11 titles over a 13-year span in the 1950s and 60s. If they can find a way to come back from a 3-2 Finals deficit, they would win their NBA-record 18th championship.
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Tatum has turned in a shaky series so far, displaying moments of pure brilliance, while pulling a disappearing act in critical minutes. During the fourth quarter of Game 5, Tatum had only five points on 1-for-5 shooting, in addition to a critical turnover. He also missed two free throws that could have cut the Warriors’ lead to eight with five minutes left. Coach Ime Udoka said the Celtics need Tatum to “be aggressive and make the right read” all game long. That starts with Tatum getting off to a better start and finishing strong. Fatigue could have been a factor, but Tatum is going to have to turn in a consistent performance if the Celtics are going to force a Game 7.
Golden State’s Andrew Wiggins
Steph Curry had an off shooting night, but Wiggins carried the Warriors to a win in Game 5 with his second consecutive double-double. Wiggins has scored well in the series, but he’s stepped his defensive effort up, and his rebounding against the physical Celtics has been an X-factor. He grabbed a game-high 13 rebounds in Game 5, on the back of a 16-rebound effort in Game 4. Anytime the Warriors can get another possession is a win. If Wiggins is able to duplicate his effort, with Curry shooting well and Game 6 Klay Thompson on the floor, the Warriors should be holding up the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy.
