The 2017 NBA Finals between the Golden State Warriors and the Cleveland Cavaliers was a captivating playoff series that showcased high-level basketball and added another chapter to the rapidly expanding NBA lore. The Warriors emerged victorious in five games, capturing their second championship in three years. Here is a detailed breakdown of some key statistics and moments from the series that illuminate why the Warriors ultimately triumphed over a resilient Cavaliers team.
**Game 1: Golden State Warriors 113, Cleveland Cavaliers 91**
In the series opener, the Warriors seized control with a dominant performance that set the tone for the Finals. Kevin Durant was nearly unstoppable, scoring 38 points on an efficient 14-of-26 shooting, while also contributing 8 rebounds and 8 assists. Stephen Curry added 28 points and 10 assists, silencing critics who questioned his Finals performance from the previous year.
For the Cavaliers, LeBron James posted a triple-double with 28 points, 15 rebounds, and 8 assists, but his efforts were not enough against a Warriors squad that shot 42% from beyond the arc and committed only 4 turnovers. The Cavaliers, in contrast, struggled with efficiency, particularly when it came to ball control and shooting consistency.
**Game 2