Has Golden State lost its confidence?
Down 2-1 to the Cavaliers in the NBA Finals, the Warriors have looked shaken much more often in this series than expected. They’re missing shots they usually make, passing up shots they usually take and not finding ways to push the pace.
There could be plenty of explanations – including injury, randomness and Cleveland’s defense. But, cause or effect, Golden State’s confidence could be contributing to its woes.
As we try to judge that, Klay Thompson offers a strong claim he still believes.
Baxter Holmes of ESPN:
Klay Thompson: "If we get our offense back, which we will, we're gonna win this series."
— Baxter Holmes (@Baxter) June 10, 2015
Well, yeah.
The Warriors’ defense – at least at face value – isn’t the problem. They’ve held Cleveland to just 94.3 points per 100 possessions.
Golden State is also scoring just 99.7 points per 100 possessions.
But easier said than done. The Cavaliers’ defense has been awesome, and their offense has scored well enough while dictating a slow pace.
I share Thompson’s confidence the Warriors will win if their offense returns to form. I’m not nearly as confident it will happen.