NBA Finals Poll: Raptors vs. Warriors

[blackbears86]

Let's make it official!


Raptors or Warriors?

[ClipsandVols]

Warriors in 5

[blackbears86]

Is it too late to add options?


I can't figure out how to add options. (I.e: Raptors in 6, etc...)

[jlzinck]

I would love to see Toronto win but the lure of seeing Drake cry on the floor is too great to pass up

[codered]

No KD (which I think is going to happen, I think his injury is more serious than people think) - Raps in 6

Series changes obviously if KD is back a healthy

[KB81]

Expected: Dubs in 5
Possibility: Dubs in 6
Unlikely: a game 7
What would make for great ratings and excitement: Dubs in 7 by 1 point in a low scoring game

Let's go Dubs!

[Bobbyplaza133]

Yawn......I mean do we really need a poll on this? Meaning, we all know the outcome.

[codered]

Yawn......I mean do we really need a poll on this? Meaning, we all know the outcome.

Kind of like everyone knew the outcome of the bucks/raps series lol

[blackbears86]

Yawn......I mean do we really need a poll on this? Meaning, we all know the outcome.





Says the guy who will probably be watching every second.



Yes we do because more people are picking the Raptors than expected.

[imbluestreak23]

I'll say Warriors in 6

[blackbears86]

The Raptors have really stepped up, but this is the Warriors to lose KD or no KD.


The Warriors can afford to have a player or two have a bad game and still win. The Raptors cannot afford that luxury.

[pejc300]

33% of you need to go to drug rehab ASAP

[bulljh]

33% of you need to go to drug rehab ASAP

Just people picking with their hearts instead of their brains

[bulljh]

No KD (which I think is going to happen, I think his injury is more serious than people think) - Raps in 6

Series changes obviously if KD is back a healthy

At what point in these playoffs, did the Warriors show they needed KD?

[yiguiri2002]

In their last 4 games, Raptors outscored the Bucks by 9 PPG
In their last 4 games, Warriors outscored the Blazers by 9.5 PPG

I think it's crazier to think the Warriors sweep or win in 5 than to think the Raptors can win (although either has a chance of happening). Without KD, this series is gonna be close.

[the mesiah]

With or without KD, it’s the Warriors that’s going to be on top .GSW are a different animal than the inexperienced Bucks ..Kawhi would have put on a Jordan NBA Finals like performance thru out the series and I don’t think he has it in him and role players would have to play at their highest possible level and be mistake free .

[ballhawkdawk]

Taking the Warriors, but some of you must not be paying attention to just how good Toronto is. It’s easy to look at the teams on paper and their histories and draw a quick conclusion. Toronto just went four in a row against the team with the best record in the NBA and made Giannis look mortal in the process. This team defends incredibly well and has the best player in the series. Kawhi is better than all of them. They also have a significant size advantage, which GSW hasn’t had to deal with in the West. I’m excited and looking forward to a great series.

[jbettis32]

I still dont see anyone can stop a healthy Kawhi in the Warriors, so if Kawhi plays out well and Kyle, Siakam, and Vanvleet have little pressure to play their game. Once Raptors can take game one, all the pressure is on the Warriors then. It should be a tight series not as the press hypes at a 4 or 5 games series.

[teosdesserts]

No KD (which I think is going to happen, I think his injury is more serious than people think) - Raps in 6

Series changes obviously if KD is back a healthy

No KD, warriors in 5. Raptors in 7 if KD comes back.

[codered]

At what point in these playoffs, did the Warriors show they needed KD?

Because they beat Houston one game and swept a blazers team without their best post player (Nurkic is infinity better than Kanter who is terrible on D) and their best player separated his ribs game two, that makes you think they don’t need KD? Short sighted much?

Without KD this team is much worse than their 14-15 counterpart that struggled to win in 6 against a lebron lead cavs team that didn’t have Love or Kyrie. The raptors are much better than the cavs team that didn’t have Love/Kyrie in the finals. When lebron had Kyrie and Love the KDless warriors couldn’t defend him so they had to go out a get KD (writing that made me throw up a little as I’m not a lebron fan boy at all lol) to defend and beat lebron. Kawhi is in that same ballpark. Without KD they don’t have anyone that can defend Kawhi one on one (no disrespect to klay and your best kawhi defender is no longer on your team, cheap shot Zaza). Guys like iggy, Livingston and Bogut are much older, no barnes and the bench of iggy, barbosa, lee and ezeli is much better than the bench you have now.

[jlzinck]

Screw it....I picked Warriors but I'm rooting for the Raptors after reading about this dude, Nav Bhatia.

https://globalnews.ca/news/5324784/toronto-raptors-superfan-nav-bhatia/

[codered]

Screw it....I picked Warriors but I'm rooting for the Raptors after reading about this dude, Nav Bhatia.

https://globalnews.ca/news/5324784/toronto-raptors-superfan-nav-bhatia/

Superfan Nav!!!! He’s an incredible dude! He’s actually our official superfan lol not drake (he’s our global ambassador)

[SacGWYNN19]

I still dont see anyone can stop a healthy Kawhi in the Warriors, so if Kawhi plays out well and Kyle, Siakam, and Vanvleet have little pressure to play their game. Once Raptors can take game one, all the pressure is on the Warriors then. It should be a tight series not as the press hypes at a 4 or 5 games series.

LOL....just stop already.

[Zacy87]

With or without KD, it’s the Warriors that’s going to be on top .GSW are a different animal than the inexperienced Bucks ..Kawhi would have put on a Jordan NBA Finals like performance thru out the series and I don’t think he has it in him and role players would have to play at their highest possible level and be mistake free .

Wait, so this logic doesnt apply when flipping sides? Clippers and Trailblazers are not the Raptors.

This series will be closer than everyone is making it out to be.

[tennelson55]

Dubbbbbbbssszzzzzz - if there is a brave soul out there who wants +250; you know where to reach me :)

[stanmarsh]

Warriors in 5 unless they get KD back then in 4.

[daeve]

Raptors in 7 - Kawhi's ultimate revenge-mode season

[MOONBASE1]

GSW in 6

[deemsterz33]

Raptors in 7!

[deemsterz33]

Because they beat Houston one game and swept a blazers team without their best post player (Nurkic is infinity better than Kanter who is terrible on D) and their best player separated his ribs game two, that makes you think they don’t need KD? Short sighted much?

Without KD this team is much worse than their 14-15 counterpart that struggled to win in 6 against a lebron lead cavs team that didn’t have Love or Kyrie. The raptors are much better than the cavs team that didn’t have Love/Kyrie in the finals. When lebron had Kyrie and Love the KDless warriors couldn’t defend him so they had to go out a get KD (writing that made me throw up a little as I’m not a lebron fan boy at all lol) to defend and beat lebron. Kawhi is in that same ballpark. Without KD they don’t have anyone that can defend Kawhi one on one (no disrespect to klay and your best kawhi defender is no longer on your team, cheap shot Zaza). Guys like iggy, Livingston and Bogut are much older, no barnes and the bench of iggy, barbosa, lee and ezeli is much better than the bench you have now.

Guarding Kawhi isn't the key to stopping the Rapotors. He's going to get his 30 ppg. GS need to stop their role players/bench.

That was one of the most over the top hypothetical posts I've ever read btw.

[Kingchrispaul]

I think warriors win but no Durant. If anyone saw footage from scrimmage today where he is walking off court he is still limping badly.

[jstasyk1121]

gonna be like the 2004 Finals....where everyone just assumed the Lakers would coast to another title....then the Pistons came in and pretty much dominated the series....

Raptors in 5!!!

And after everyone will all the sudden realize "yea obviously this was the end of that dynasty and now they will break up and go their separate ways"

[ballhawkdawk]

gonna be like the 2004 Finals....where everyone just assumed the Lakers would coast to another title....then the Pistons came in and pretty much dominated the series....

Raptors in 5!!!

And after everyone will all the sudden realize "yea obviously this was the end of that dynasty and now they will break up and go their separate ways"

This is a real possibility. Just look at everyone jumping ship on Milwaukee / Giannis. All it took was four games for them to go from “Bring on the Warriors... we got the next face of the NBA” to “release everyone.. and Giannis isn’t that good.”

This year we were blessed to have such a great Eastern Conference playoffs, and now the best team of that group is up against the defending champs. I have little doubt that Milwaukee, Philly, or Toronto wouldnt get past anyone in the West that isn’t Golden State, so now we’re truly getting the best matchup the NBA has to offer.

[codered]

Guarding Kawhi isn't the key to stopping the Rapotors. He's going to get his 30 ppg. GS need to stop their role players/bench.

That was one of the most over the top hypothetical posts I've ever read btw.

Over the top? How? On the finals countdown show yesterday doc rivers (he might now a thing or two about basketball) was echoing may assertion that without KD they don’t have anyone that can stop kawhi. The key for GS is exactly how do you defend kawhi. Are you sending doubles and triple his way like philly and the bucks did? If he’s a willing passer are you willing to let the other guys get open looks? Do you not send help to put more pressure on Lowry, Gasol, green, siakam and the bench? Who guards kawhi one on one? You send klay and let kawhi feast near the rim? Do you put draymond on him and pull your only above average rim defender away from the rim? Do you hope iggy can keep up all game? Is it a look of switching all 3 on him. How you defend kawhi is the absolute focus of stopping the raps lol! I’m sure Steve Kerr just walked into the team meeting today and was like “boys the game plan for the series is just stop the other guys, don’t worry about stopping that kawhi guy or how to defend him”.

Also listening to guys like Richard Jefferson and Harrison Barnes last night talk about how this team without KD isn’t as good as the pre KD warriors for the same reasons I stated kind of adds some validation to my point as well. Tell me again how it’s, “over the top”. People need to stop looking at the warriors as this flawless team. They are very very good but they have weaknesses. I just hope the raptors can exploit those weaknesses

[Orangejello727]

Over the top? How? On the finals countdown show yesterday doc rivers (he might now a thing or two about basketball) was echoing may assertion that without KD they don’t have anyone that can stop kawhi. The key for GS is exactly how do you defend kawhi. Are you sending doubles and triple his way like philly and the bucks did? If he’s a willing passer are you willing to let the other guys get open looks? Do you not send help to put more pressure on Lowry, Gasol, green, siakam and the bench? Who guards kawhi one on one? You send klay and let kawhi feast near the rim? Do you put draymond on him and pull your only above average rim defender away from the rim? Do you hope iggy can keep up all game? Is it a look of switching all 3 on him. How you defend kawhi is the absolute focus of stopping the raps lol! I’m sure Steve Kerr just walked into the team meeting today and was like “boys the game plan for the series is just stop the other guys, don’t worry about stopping that kawhi guy or how to defend him”.

Also listening to guys like Richard Jefferson and Harrison Barnes last night talk about how this team without KD isn’t as good as the pre KD warriors for the same reasons I stated kind of adds some validation to my point as well. Tell me again how it’s, “over the top”. People need to stop looking at the warriors as this flawless team. They are very very good but they have weaknesses. I just hope the raptors can exploit those weaknesses

Dont bother with him. Dude knows nothing about how the raps play/played and what the match up will be like. He has been dogging the Raps the whole way.

[blackbears86]

If I was Kerr, I would let Kawhi do his thing and make sure no one else goes off.



I would also think having kawhi guard Curry would be a tough assignment as he would have to fight through multiple screens on an apparent bum quad.



Should be interesting!

[codered]

Dont bother with him. Dude knows nothing about how the raps play/played and what the match up will be like. He has been dogging the Raps the whole way.

Haha I figured as much. I don’t think most people commenting have watch a full game this year, let alone a raps game lol

If I was Kerr, I would let Kawhi do his thing and make sure no one else goes off.



I would also think having kawhi guard Curry would be a tough assignment as he would have to fight through multiple screens on an apparent bum quad.



Should be interesting!

First off nobody is saying they are a bum squad but that without KD they aren’t as good as warriors teams past haha so drop the dramatics. Kawhi won’t be on Steph. One of the reasons is as you said, chasing him all day around a million screens can get exhausting. They’ll probably play somewhat of a zone and rely on their ability to switch and close out. Having siakam, kawhi and Gasol/ibaka on the front will help because all three can defend the rim and can still defend in space. You’re not gonna get “hurt” if one of them ends up on curry on a switch (besides curry can get his shot off on anyone with his handle and quick release) because you still have more than capable defenders at the rim. You’ll probably see a little more ibaka this series as well. Gasol isn’t slow and he’s still a good defender when he gets in space but ibaka is definitely more athletic and a better defender on the perimeter.

[blackbears86]

Haha I figured as much. I don’t think most people commenting have watch a full game this year, let alone a raps game lol



First off nobody is saying they are a bum squad but that without KD they aren’t as good as warriors teams past haha so drop the dramatics. Kawhi won’t be on Steph. One of the reasons is as you said, chasing him all day around a million screens can get exhausting. They’ll probably play somewhat of a zone and rely on their ability to switch and close out. Having siakam, kawhi and Gasol/ibaka on the front will help because all three can defend the rim and can still defend in space. You’re not gonna get “hurt” if one of them ends up on curry on a switch (besides curry can get his shot off on anyone with his handle and quick release) because you still have more than capable defenders at the rim. You’ll probably see a little more ibaka this series as well. Gasol isn’t slow and he’s still a good defender when he gets in space but ibaka is definitely more athletic and a better defender on the perimeter.




What the heck are you talking about??:confused:


I said it would be interesting if Kawhi guarded Curry with his bum QUAD.

I would assume he would not.

[codered]

What the heck are you talking about??:confused:


I said it would be interesting if Kawhi guarded Curry with his bum QUAD.

I would assume he would not.

Lol sorry!! I thought you wrote bum squad lol my bad

[blackbears86]

Lol sorry!! I thought you wrote bum squad lol my bad

I think this series will be very close. I'm still saying Warriors because of experience and firepower, but Toronto has shown some excellent defense.

My final thoughts.

1. We know GS has the firepower---does Toronto?
2. Besides Kawhi: who will step up for the Raptors?
3. Will KD and Cousins play? And will they even have an impact? Will it be a negative impact?
4. Will the bench continue to step up for both squads or will the spincters tighten?
5. Will we see the Van fleet of the last few games or the Van Fleet of the first two games?
6. Will Draymond kick Gasol in the nuts?

[Orangejello727]

I think this series will be very close. I'm still saying Warriors because of experience and firepower, but Toronto has shown some excellent defense.

My final thoughts.

1. We know GS has the firepower---does Toronto? Toronto does
2. Besides Kawhi: who will step up for the Raptors? Kyle, Siakam, Ibaka
3. Will KD and Cousins play? And will they even have an impact? Will it be a negative impact? only assume a positive impact
4. Will the bench continue to step up for both squads or will the spincters tighten? if the benches show up, itll be the TSN turning point of the series
5. Will we see the Van fleet of the last few games or the Van Fleet of the first two games? Lets hope we see the best FV
6. Will Draymond kick Gasol in the nuts? I say no

We all know the dubs are favored and have more experience in the post season, especially playing in the finals. Thats all a given. The Raptors are under dogs, vegas odds show by just how much!!

I dont think anyone is arguing that. But the NBA Playoffs "Where anything happens" is what everyone is excited for. The favored team doesnt always win. The momentum turns at any given point and players shine while others miss their mark. Thats what makes this the Finals.

None of us know who will play above their capability or below. For all we know the players on the Warriors dont perform as well as they did and maybe the raps down...or vice versa.

[RichardGasner]

I think not many people giving the Raptors credit where credit is due is the problem here.

Wake up!

[ballhawkdawk]

I think not many people giving the Raptors credit where credit is due is the problem here.

Wake up!

Most people here don’t watch basketball. Don’t hold it against them. If they did, they’d recognize Toronto is as legit as they come.

[Goldminer]

Most people here don’t watch basketball. Don’t hold it against them. If they did, they’d recognize Toronto is as legit as they come.Legit choke every year in the playoff

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G920A using Tapatalk

[gomiamigo]

Raps win Game 1 then choke away the series as per usual.

J/K without Durant if he doesn't come back I think they win but when he does I think GSW wins.

[blackbears86]

I think not many people giving the Raptors credit where credit is due is the problem here.

Wake up!



I'm giving them plenty of credit. They are playing very well right now. But teams have a reputation based on history and they have a history of folding.



Will that change starting Thursday? Stay tuned!!!!!!!

[Southpas2013]

Warriors in 4.


Thanks.

[RichardGasner]

Legit choke every year in the playoff

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G920A using Tapatalk

They had Derozan in the playoffs the last x amount of years. He seemed to be a great regular season star, but never really showed up in the playoffs when it mean something. The Raptors acquired this guy...I think his name is Kawhi?Apparently, he Hs playoff and championship finals experience...and fared pretty well during them. Please don’t speak on a team that isn’t the same as it was, as if it is.

[codered]

I think not many people giving the Raptors credit where credit is due is the problem here.

Wake up!

I also think it’s partly due to the western conference bias. People think the raps might not score enough because they struggle to score at times against the sixers and bucks. Well the sixers are a great defensive team. Butler, embiid and Simmons are very good to elite defenders! Embiid at worst is a top 3 rim protector. The bucks, were the best defensive team all year! Giannis is one of the other top 3 rim defenders (gobert being the 3rd member of the top 3) in the league. When people say Toronto can’t score (which they can) based off the last two series is extremely disrespectful to the bucks and sixers.

[RichardGasner]

I also think it’s partly due to the western conference bias. People think the raps might not score enough because they struggle to score at times against the sixers and bucks. Well the sixers are a great defensive team. Butler, embiid and Simmons are very good to elite defenders! Embiid at worst is a top 3 rim protector. The bucks, were the best defensive team all year! Giannis is one of the other top 3 rim defenders (gobert being the 3rd member of the top 3) in the league. When people say Toronto can’t score (which they can) based off the last two series is extremely disrespectful to the bucks and sixers.

I agree. Considering the Raptors points for and against in the regular season
114.4 vs 108.4 +6
And the Warriors
117.7 vs 111.2 +6.5

It should be close offensively and defensively. Again, I will mention that these stats are without Leonard for a quarter of the season, as he sat 22 games

[ballhawkdawk]

Legit choke every year in the playoff

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G920A using Tapatalk

Exactly. This is some BS ESPN panelist type take. Try again.

[tennelson55]

dubbbbbbbssszzzzzz - if there is a brave soul out there who wants +250; you know where to reach me :)

raptors fans pm me if you think the dubs have a chance

[Orangejello727]

I'm giving them plenty of credit. They are playing very well right now. But teams have a reputation based on history and they have a history of folding.



Will that change starting Thursday? Stay tuned!!!!!!!

If anything history should tell you not to base 100% of your predictions on historical outcomes. If you did, you would be wrong more times than you would be correct. Also dont base your predictions on favorites as well. This year should show you that as well.

If you based your facts on history, would you have thought that the dubs would 4 out the Cavs last year? Hell no. Do you know why? because based on history, both teams didnt play anything like they did the year previous.

So taking into the context the changes that have been made for this years Raps team, why would you use historical performance to predict this year? Because you think Kawahi = DeRozan? Or Gasol = Jonas?? Or Nurse = Casey??? better yet... Lowry last year vs lowry this year? Of all things, Lowrys performance should be a huge indicator that things arent the same as last year.

[drobfan8]

Can't wait. Damn the schedule is crap for us Aussies. A Friday game and then a Monday game.

Why would the NBA want a Thursday and Sunday game over your way? Will they get more viewers that way?

GS will get Boogue back but I would not be starting him. Use him if they need some size in the 2nd unit.

Klay is gonna prove he's worth a massive contract and come up with key stops vs Kawhi. Kawhi will still get his. Dude is incredible. Iggy will get time on Kawhi also but that transition 3 is what hurts teams.

Should be an awesome series

[yiguiri2002]

Yeah, the Raptors choked against the Sixers and Bucks. They choked sooooo hard.

[ninjacookies]

Yes, I know the Raptors are a huge vegas dog.


But some of the 'cakewalk' sentiment is eerily similar to what people were saying heading into the Bucks series.

[drobfan8]

Yes, I know the Raptors are a huge vegas dog.


But some of the 'cakewalk' sentiment is eerily similar to what people were saying heading into the Bucks series.

I've gotta believe the only reason Vegas has GS so short is because a lot of people would have bet GS hard early on.

Each game should see good value both ways.

[ninjacookies]

I've gotta believe the only reason Vegas has GS so short is because a lot of people would have bet GS hard early on.

Each game should see good value both ways.

Raps now a 1 point fave in game 1.

That spread is looking tempting though.

[clipperboy24]

I think people are underestimating raptors homecourt advantage and how the Warriors haven’t seems to have as much of an advantage at home in the playoffs especially when teams shoot well from 3. Also I really think Kawhi is going to tear them apart. I think raptors in 6 or 7

[clipperboy24]

Dubbbbbbbssszzzzzz - if there is a brave soul out there who wants +250; you know where to reach me :)

I’d take that for $20

[NinjaJohnny]

Can't wait. Damn the schedule is crap for us Aussies. A Friday game and then a Monday game.

Why would the NBA want a Thursday and Sunday game over your way? Will they get more viewers that way?

GS will get Boogue back but I would not be starting him. Use him if they need some size in the 2nd unit.

Klay is gonna prove he's worth a massive contract and come up with key stops vs Kawhi. Kawhi will still get his. Dude is incredible. Iggy will get time on Kawhi also but that transition 3 is what hurts teams.

Should be an awesome series

Agree with most here. You can't rush Cousins out there, if he does play it should be on the second unit. I'm surprised he's playing to be honest.

You're right that Klay is essential. Iguadola is older now and banged up and just can't check a player like Leonard anymore, at least not for extended periods. Really nobody can. But Thompson will be tasked with doing a lot of the defense on him and we will see if he can keep him contained. Leonard is just a very strong, tough player to guard.

Raptors match up pretty well with GS. I think they would have rather dealt with Giannis frankly.

If Durant can't play soon and isn't 100% I think it's a bigger deal than most want to admit. He's an incredible player and his absence is going to potentially be a big deal here.

The intangibles go to the Warriors obviously. They are champions all around. They will be tough to beat. But I agree this could be one heck of a Finals.

[Ray927]

Raptors in 7

Sent from my SM-G920P using Tapatalk

[drobfan8]

Raps now a 1 point fave in game 1.

That spread is looking tempting though.

I have no idea who I'd take. GS need to win 1 of the first 2. Does GS have an advantage or disadvantage with the time off? How about the Raps. I guess we'll find out.

Kerr's game plan will be crucial.

Agree with most here. You can't rush Cousins out there, if he does play it should be on the second unit. I'm surprised he's playing to be honest.

You're right that Klay is essential. Iguadola is older now and banged up and just can't check a player like Leonard anymore, at least not for extended periods. Really nobody can. But Thompson will be tasked with doing a lot of the defense on him and we will see if he can keep him contained. Leonard is just a very strong, tough player to guard.

Raptors match up pretty well with GS. I think they would have rather dealt with Giannis frankly.

If Durant can't play soon and isn't 100% I think it's a bigger deal than most want to admit. He's an incredible player and his absence is going to potentially be a big deal here.

The intangibles go to the Warriors obviously. They are champions all around. They will be tough to beat. But I agree this could be one heck of a Finals.

Yeah I just feel Klay wants his defense to be noticed more than it is, this is the match up he can show that. Kawhi has been closing games better than anybody. It will be interesting to see if he can keep it up.

I'm not sure we'll see GS let slip a 15 point lead in the 3rd qtr like MIL did in game 6.

[yiguiri2002]

Hold on a second...

I swear there were tons of people in the ECF thread (among others) saying that it doesn't matter who came out of the East because the Dubs played better without Durant and this was gonna be a 5 game, 6 game series tops and an easy ring for them.

What happened that made you change your mind?

[ninjacookies]

Hold on a second...

I swear there were tons of people in the ECF thread (among others) saying that it doesn't matter who came out of the East because the Dubs played better without Durant and this was gonna be a 5 game, 6 game series tops and an easy ring for them.

What happened that made you change your mind?

Kawhi hit a game winner then they reeled off 4 in a row on the best regular season team. I'm flip flopping like a politician. But the special season narrative is hard to completely ignore. Still have the warriors because of experience, but would not be completely surprised to see Toronto pull off a 2011 Mavs performance.

I also expect this to be 2-2 heading into game 5.

[pennywise]

Think: Warriors in 6

Want: Raptors in 7

[blackbears86]

Tonight is the night!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[jcmel323]

Warrriors in 6

Game1 GSW
Game2 TOR
Game3 GSW
Game4 GSW
Game5 TOR
Game6 GSW

[gameissued]

Kawhi will shut down Curry for the first few.. then out of nowhere Draymond Green will poke Kawhi's eyes on accident.. GSW wins the series. I hope Nick Nurse realizes their only hope to win the series is to start Linsanity!

[COMCMax]

If this ends up being a close series who cards from either sides could see a bump other than Kawhi. Just whoever steps up for the Warriors?

2012 Kawhi Leonard PRIZM GREEN Refractor Rookie Card BGS 9.5 Gem Mint (https://bit.ly/2YUukil)

[daeve]

If this ends up being a close series who cards from either sides could see a bump other than Kawhi. Just whoever steps up for the Warriors?

2012 Kawhi Leonard PRIZM GREEN Refractor Rookie Card BGS 9.5 Gem Mint (https://bit.ly/2YUukil)

I could see Siakam getting a bump with a good series. And for the Warriors maybe Looney if he plays well with KD+Boogie out.

[pgisback]

Excited! Gonna be interesting. All comes down to if Toronto role players come to play. Kawhi is great, but he's not good enough to beat the Warriors on his own. Lowry and Siakam are going to have to come up big and Vleet and Green hitting their 3s. Gasol/Ibaka contributing something also. Possible, but tough.

[alias21]

Kerr just announced that Cousins will play in game 1. Will be interesting to see what kind of shape he’ll be in. Even if he just plays 12-15 minutes off the bench it strengthens their depth for sure.

[RichardGasner]

Warrriors in 6

Game1 GSW
Game2 TOR
Game3 GSW
Game4 GSW
Game5 TOR
Game6 GSW

Raptors in 6

Game 1 Raptors
Game 2 Raptors
Game 3 GSW
Game 4 Raptors
Game 5 GSW
Game 6 Raptors

[pennywise]

Warrriors in 6

Game1 GSW
Game2 TOR
Game3 GSW
Game4 GSW
Game5 TOR
Game6 GSW

Exactly what I was thinking.

[SDcardguy24]

going with Warriors but I wouldn't mind being wrong.

it would be nice if Danny Green finally shows up. he's got a decent track record in the finals

[Goldminer]

I could see Siakam getting a bump with a good series. And for the Warriors maybe Looney if he plays well with KD+Boogie out.I see Siakam going in the toilet when the Raptors lose. Riding Kawahi and Lowry coat tails

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G920A using Tapatalk

[blackbears86]

Kerr just announced that Cousins will play in game 1. Will be interesting to see what kind of shape he’ll be in. Even if he just plays 12-15 minutes off the bench it strengthens their depth for sure.



Very interesting.

He must feel half decent if Kerr is going to play him.

[codered]

I see Siakam going in the toilet when the Raptors lose. Riding Kawahi and Lowry coat tails

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G920A using Tapatalk

I don’t think you even watch basketball. Siakam has been phenomenal all year. At least spell kawhi’s name right if you’re gonna troll

[thepinoymamba]

Warriors In 6... Steph Curry will be Finals MVP

Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk

[bulljh]

I don’t think you even watch basketball. Siakam has been phenomenal all year. At least spell kawhi’s name right if you’re gonna troll

The regular season doesn’t matter anymore. How has he been in the playoffs? I caught a few games and I didn’t see anything special.


Edit: it looks like his per game average is up but his percentages are down.

[yiguiri2002]

The regular season doesn’t matter anymore. How has he been in the playoffs? I caught a few games and I didn’t see anything special.


Edit: it looks like his per game average is up but his percentages are down.

So you are saying Klay is not gonna be a factor, right?

[yiguiri2002]

Kawhi hit a game winner then they reeled off 4 in a row on the best regular season team. I'm flip flopping like a politician. But the special season narrative is hard to completely ignore. Still have the warriors because of experience, but would not be completely surprised to see Toronto pull off a 2011 Mavs performance.

I also expect this to be 2-2 heading into game 5.

I feel you. I've gone from Raptors in 5 to Raptors in 7 to Dubs in 6 back to Raptors in 7. This is gonna be so even.

But who knows, I'm the same guy who said Bucks in 7 (at least it wasn't 5 I guess).

[smalltown]

The regular season doesn’t matter anymore. How has he been in the playoffs? I caught a few games and I didn’t see anything special.

He has held opponents to 0.35 points per possession in isolation. 3rd in the playoffs for Defensive Win Shares behind only Kawhi and Giannis. In other words - despite being injured - he's been playing really, really good defense. And ya scoring an average of 18.7PPG and 7reb while doing it.

[drobfan8]

I see Siakam going in the toilet when the Raptors lose. Riding Kawahi and Lowry coat tails

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G920A using Tapatalk

You'd be great to go camping with. A real barrel of laughs.

[codered]

The regular season doesn’t matter anymore. How has he been in the playoffs? I caught a few games and I didn’t see anything special.


Edit: it looks like his per game average is up but his percentages are down.

He’s been playing with a bruised calf since game 3, getting doubled consistently for the first time in his career and being defended by embiid (2nd team all D) and then giannis (1st team all D). He’ll be fine

[prospectorgems]

F the Raptors! Warriors in 3!

[ninjacookies]

I feel you. I've gone from Raptors in 5 to Raptors in 7 to Dubs in 6 back to Raptors in 7. This is gonna be so even.

But who knows, I'm the same guy who said Bucks in 7 (at least it wasn't 5 I guess).

Now I absolutely can't call it.

I'll be pleased so long as we get a clash of prime playoffs Curry and Kawhi. Really hoping for 7 games.

[ninjacookies]

Nav sounds like an Iron Shiek shoot interview minus the homophobic expletives.

[tennelson55]

raptors fans pm me if you think the dubs have a chance

I’d take that for $20

Raptors fan in hiding...

One lucky soul messaged me and now I’m waiting for more...

[ninjacookies]

Raptors fan in hiding...

One lucky soul messaged me and now I’m waiting for more...

Willing to do it game by game?

If so I'll take Raps straight up tonight. LMK.

[ninjacookies]

Damn. Windhorst can sing.

[elee712]

I guess Toronto won the National Athem Battle

[pennywise]

Most excited I've been for the Finals since 2014. Please let this be a competitive series!!

[Melagoo]

Fans arrived! ...

[cowboyzqna]

I would like for this to be competitive... But i really don't think it will be.

Kerr, Klay, Green and Curry are just so damn good.


The raps are a feel good story right now.. And i dig it. But lets not forget how special this warriors squad is.

[Pathora]

I'm still going with the Warriors but this could have a similar feel to the 2003/04 Playoffs when the Lakers were the dominate favorite while the Pistons/Pacers played a complete slugfest grind series. The Pistons prevailed and few thought they could win and they smashed the Lakers (mainly cause they hated each other). Toronto being in the Finals for the first time could be a unique homecourt advantage that's tough to win in and Kawhi is right there with Curry for best player on the court. (an advantage the Pistons didn't have over the Lakers Big 4)

[M4YH3M1]

Why are the Raptors not going inside!!!

so many damn 3pt shots

[pennywise]

Aaaaand It's a 3-point contest.

[Melagoo]

Raps look good so far ... Green hit a 3 :D

[ninjacookies]

3

3


3


3


At least the defense is pretty good.

[mc1]

Yes, I know the Raptors are a huge vegas dog.


But some of the 'cakewalk' sentiment is eerily similar to what people were saying heading into the Bucks series.

Huge dog? I don’t know. Cavs last two years were really, really huge dogs. Off the top of my head, I think they were +800 and +1200. Something like that.

[pgisback]

So much energy. Raptors have a chance

[ninjacookies]

Looking so far like the Raps role players stepping up last series wasn't a fluke.

[Boo]

So much energy. Raptors have a chance

Seeing how the whole pregame crew took the Raptors in this game and series, I would say they have a chance.

[alias21]

Raptors look like the toughest opponent the warriors have faced thus far in the finals during their run. Going to have to play at a high level to win.

[yiguiri2002]

Too early to tell...but the Warriors need to rotate better

[yiguiri2002]

Spicy P vs Draymond is NOT a matchup you want

[pgisback]

Curry is amazing

[ninjacookies]

Warriors with an 8 point swing in 10 seconds. Fun.

[yiguiri2002]

I don't know if the Raptors know this but the only guy hitting shots for the Dubs is Steph

[ninjacookies]

I don't know if the Raptors know this but the only guy hitting shots for the Dubs is Steph

Even his miss was halfway down.


Entertaining start to the game. At least it's looking competitive.

Then again, Warriors games don't start until the 3rd quarter...

[pgisback]

Even his miss was halfway down.


Entertaining start to the game. At least it's looking competitive.

Then again, Warriors games don't start until the 3rd quarter...

Very true. Portland played great in almost every 1h.

[Boo]

I don't care what anyone says, Klay sucks

[ninjacookies]

Very true. Portland played great in almost every 1h.

I'm going to throw my tv out the window if we see the same thing every game this series.

[Melagoo]

Go Raps! ...

[ninjacookies]

Raps have a 4 point lead and Leonard did absolutely nothing.

[Melagoo]

Raps have a 4 point lead and Leonard did absolutely nothing.

he is pretty happy about that I bet

[ninjacookies]

he is pretty happy about that I bet

Then again Klay didn't either.


Cousins sighting...

[Donkaylove]

Then again Klay didn't either.


Cousins sighting...

wwhha? omg, sstreaminn now

[Rip67vdub]

Good to see Boogie back on the floor.

[pgisback]

Warriors looking ugly. Raptors missing an opportunity to extend this lead.

[Pathora]

Why on earth would you let Van Vleet shoot open 3's after the past few games, especially when the other option was Patrick McCaw?

[Melagoo]

... Raps ... need to stay with this game plan ...

[pgisback]

Man this game slowed down

[ninjacookies]

They're doing a great job on Leonard.

[rhigh2390]

Liking Draymond's new approach to the refs. Much easier to watch a player go up and talk to a ref instead of going and yelling at them.

[Melagoo]

Kyle the football player point guard

[Melagoo]

They're doing a great job on Leonard.

which should open up tons of other opportunities

[ninjacookies]

which should open up tons of other opportunities

They better be careful.

[rhigh2390]

Pretty sloppy play from both teams so far. Partly to be expected with the layoffs.

[Pathora]

Both teams have to feel good that they're still in it.

[Melagoo]

Spicy P

[ninjacookies]

I see Siakam going in the toilet when the Raptors lose. Riding Kawahi and Lowry coat tails

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G920A using Tapatalk

Definitely looking in the toilet right now.


Are you Bill Walton?

[Melagoo]

the CLAW!

[pennywise]

That was p spicy.

[Melagoo]

Definitely looking in the toilet right now.


Are you Bill Walton?

good one!

[drobfan8]

Definitely looking in the toilet right now.


Are you Bill Walton?

:D

I'm loving the game so far.

I like GS's intensity on D.

Siakam has looked gooood.

[Melagoo]

Andre ... Drake

[Melagoo]

:D

I'm loving the game so far.

I like GS's intensity on D.

Siakam has looked gooood.

I like the Raps winning right now!

[Melagoo]

from Yellowknife!

[Melagoo]

Go Canada! Go Raps!

[ninjacookies]

Gasol the game's leading scorer at the half.


Wonder what the prop line was on that.


And the 2 biggest Milwaukee no shows (Gasol + Green) end up being two of the biggest contributors. Toronto's balance right now is top notch.

[pennywise]

Alright everybody. Brace yourselves for the 3rd quarter Warriors.

[hanstess]

Raptors shooting the ball much better than GS - difference in the game, period

[koncheng]

Gasol reaches across curry's whole body to knock the ball out and the refs pretend like it wasnt a foul...

[yiguiri2002]

Warriors are gonna shoot better...but Kawhi is also gonna play better too.

[Vinny407]

Lol, Curry is not used to being guarded physically. But I think GS adjusts and takes it in the 2nd half. I don't see Toronto sustaining this kind of lead w/ Gasol as their leading scorer.

[yiguiri2002]

Also, it's only been 1 half, but Boogie playing could be the difference in this series. He's not all the way back but it helps the bench a lot.

[ninjacookies]

Warriors are gonna shoot better...but Kawhi is also gonna play better too.

Kawhi's going to have to step up, because eventually one or both of the splash brothers are going to catch their rhythm. I have faith in him though. He had a few games against Mil where he was lulled in the first half but started exploiting switch offs in the second. Honestly surprised to see him not using his mid-range tonight.

[yiguiri2002]

Kawhi's going to have to step up, because eventually one or both of the splash brothers are going to catch their rhythm. I have faith in him though. He had a few games against Mil where he was lulled in the first half but started exploiting switch offs in the second. Honestly surprised to see him not using his mid-range tonight.

I think the gameplan is to double team Steph on the screens, contain Klay and make the role players beat you.

But Steph is Steph. He's gonna get open and hit his shots. But if Kawhi bounces back and continues shadowing Klay, that should be enough for them.

[pennywise]

Yeah, definitely expecting Kawhi to heat up in the second half. Curry or Klay or both are inevitably going to string together some big shots though too.

[Litwing]

Hoping Raptors can get game 1, at least one game man.

[ninjacookies]

I think the gameplan is to double team Steph on the screens, contain Klay and make the role players beat you.

But Steph is Steph. He's gonna get open and hit his shots. But if Kawhi bounces back and continues shadowing Klay, that should be enough for them.

Yup. One thing the Raps are doing a much better job (at least for a half) than what we saw with Houston or Portland is that they're crowding Steph off those screens with help defenders. But he's going to make the impossible, because that's what Steph does.

[Donkaylove]

go gasol, iggy, and siakam---fun second half. ten points is nothing,GS clean it up, and its tied boom! Durant pulls the willis reed entrance at some point this series, i say boooooooooooooo!

[Melagoo]

SEE ... Attack HIM

[pennywise]

Man, Gasol has been great on both ends.

[Melagoo]

nice fast break Raps!

[M4YH3M1]

GSW just lull you to sleep with all their running around then all of a sudden, "oh sh1t, theres a wide open Klay or Curry"

[Melagoo]

Kwahi the foul magnet

[ninjacookies]

Whatever that PBM Goldminer says, bet the house against it. Siakam will undoubtedly get the Finals MVP now.

[Melagoo]

Whatever that PBM Goldminer says, bet the house against it. Siakam will undoubtedly get the Finals MVP now.

Siakam is in the scoring zone!

[drobfan8]

Whatever that PBM Goldminer says, bet the house against it. Siakam will undoubtedly get the Finals MVP now.

Ha ha.

It could be someones alt account.

What was Siakam paying before this game?

And someone was saying that Kawhi had no Pippen. :doh:

[ninjacookies]

Siakam is in the scoring zone!

Curious what his next bold prediction is. I already have my vegas money ready.

[ninjacookies]

Ha ha.

It could be someones alt account.

What was Siakam paying before this game?

And someone was saying that Kawhi had no Pippen. :doh:


No clue. But I'd prefer he not continue to play at this level so I can afford more of him this offseason... :o

[yiguiri2002]

Whatever that PBM Goldminer says, bet the house against it. Siakam will undoubtedly get the Finals MVP now.

He is the Paul Pierce of Blowout

[ballhawkdawk]

So much for the Warriors blowing the Raptors away.

[drobfan8]

I don't get the Jordan Bell mins this game either.

Get your best screener and big man passer some mins. Andrew Bogut!

[ninjacookies]

He is the Paul Pierce of Blowout

That's being way too hard on Pierce.

[yiguiri2002]

That's being way too hard on Pierce.

Celtics in 5

[Melagoo]

Spicy P!

[nman84]

What were Siakam’s MVP odds?

[ninjacookies]

All this and the Warriors are only down by 7.


I guess good side is that Raps didn't completely implode early like the Blazers.

[CubKings]

I may be in the minority, or just the minority by myself, but I think Curry is an ugly player. Haha I just don't like his style, his shot or anything. Most of the time he looks like a awkward little kid playing against a bunch of older kids. I don't get all the excitement from watching him at all.

And he flails on every shot trying to get calls. But only Harden gets sh!t for that...

[rhigh2390]

I don't get the Jordan Bell mins this game either.

Get your best screener and big man passer some mins. Andrew Bogut!

Agree. Not sure why we haven't seen any Bogut.

[rhigh2390]

Lowry reverting back to playoff Lowry, I see.

[ninjacookies]

And he flails on every shot trying to get calls. But only Harden gets sh!t for that...


I actually enjoy watching Curry. But you couldn't be more right. He flails his entire body and does the wildest kickout trying to draw contact. But only Harden gets hell for it.

[Melagoo]

Why not take the shot Serge ...

[ninjacookies]

Man. Raps didn't bend. Got to give them props. Still has to be nerve wracking knowing the Warriors can drop 10 in a minute. Entertaining game so far.

[M4YH3M1]

bad last possession, but a good position to be in heading to the 4th.

Klay and Curry haven't done a lot in the 3rd, so expect that to turn around in the 4th.

[yiguiri2002]

I feel like Dubs have to steal this one. I don't think Kawhi is gonna have another game as bad as this one and they are perfect from the line.

Curry needs to go nuclear in the 4th though.

[pgisback]

Uh oh! Warriors back in it.

[ninjacookies]

Oh boy. Here it comes.

[M4YH3M1]

my god what a lay-up by Van Vleet

[M4YH3M1]

How is it that a 2nd string bench guy is given the ball to ISO at the top.

What has happened to Lowrys shooting confidence? his hand must really be bothering him

[ninjacookies]

my god what a lay-up by Van Vleet

That was some baby giannis stuff.


Toronto bends but just won't break.

[Melagoo]

Raps can play that way too!

[daeve]

Siakam looking great. He's a different animal when he's not being guarded by the DPOY

[PKIPP]

Siakam tho

[PKIPP]

Siakam looking great. He's a different animal when he's not being guarded by the DPOY

Rudy Gobert would be guarding Gasol so not sure how that's relevant

[rman112]

Better without Boogie.

[ninjacookies]

Rudy Gobert would be guarding Gasol so not sure how that's relevant

lol


The Raps are playing amazing rotational help defense. This is beautiful to watch.

[cnewby]

Siakam looking great. He's a different animal when he's not being guarded by the DPOY

Good point. He gets to pummel draymond tonight.

[PKIPP]

Siakam hooking off the glass like Lew Alcindor!! What a game by this dude

[pgisback]

Wow Siakam playing like a superstar. Where was this against Milwaukee

[hanstess]

Points in the paint: TOR - 38, GS - 20. Wow

[nman84]

Spicy (MV)P

[PKIPP]

lol


The Raps are playing amazing rotational help defense. This is beautiful to watch.

Word. Hope they can hang on to this one man!

[Litwing]

Siakam!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[M4YH3M1]

Lowry silly foul for his 5th!

[ninjacookies]

Word. Hope they can hang on to this one man!

We can only pray, man.

[M4YH3M1]

yes Danny. Yes

[rman112]

Pretty sure Siakam traveled before that pass to Green.

[ninjacookies]

This Toronto team is just amazing right now. Everyone chipping in on both ends of the floor.

[ThoseBackPages]

seems they really DO miss KD!

:cry:

[eastbayak]

Siakam is freaking balling right now.

[PKIPP]

*KD on his burner account*: "man y'all know the Warriors wouldn't be losing if KD was out there!"

[Melagoo]

Siakam is our KD!

[pgisback]

Not saying they need KD until game 2. If they split in Toronto they’ll be fine.

[yiguiri2002]

This Toronto team is just amazing right now. Everyone chipping in on both ends of the floor.

They've been playing like this for a while. People just were too fixated on Giannis' weaknesses.

Also, Danny Green woke up. Seems like the only thing he needed was a ball in the head.

[rman112]

Iguodala is so underrated.

[rman112]

Iguodala contributes to two straight buckets. This is very much a game.

[Melagoo]

4 on Steph

[rman112]

Wow! HUGE bucket there

[M4YH3M1]

SIAKAMMMMMMM

[rman112]

Ooh, I don't know. Looked like all ball.

[drobfan8]

Great D by the Raps mixed with Siakam not missing and some clear rust by GS.

Where are all the people calling GS in 4 or 5? Come on now

[yiguiri2002]

Danny Green is balling!

[PKIPP]

KLAY TRIGGERED

[ninjacookies]

RIP cheap Siakam cards.


Damnit.

Was pretty easy to see what kind of potential he had early this season.


If Raps win, I'm not getting too excited. They're doing exactly what they are supposed to do, which is hold home court. But they're playing phenomenal team ball.

[M4YH3M1]

Yep, as soon as Klay threw that ball in the direction of the ref was going to get a T.

[yiguiri2002]

Great D by the Raps mixed with Siakam not missing and some clear rust by GS.

Where are all the people calling GS in 4 or 5? Come on now

Forget that. Where are the people saying they were better without KD?!?!

[pgisback]

Warriors in 5

[yiguiri2002]

RIP cheap Siakam cards.


Damnit.

Was pretty easy to see what kind of potential he had early this season.


If Raps win, I'm not getting too excited. They're doing exactly what they are supposed to do, which is hold home court. But they're playing phenomenal team ball.

There's still hope.

KD comes back and the Warriors win...or Kawhi steps up and wins MVP.

[ninjacookies]

There's still hope.

KD comes back and the Warriors win...or Kawhi steps up and wins MVP.

The second one. PLEASE.

[cnewby]

So fun to watch how poorly the warriors handle losing. This game isnt even over and you can see them packing it in.

[ThoseBackPages]

RIP cheap Siakam cards.


Damnit.

Was pretty easy to see what kind of potential he had early this season.


If Raps win, I'm not getting too excited. They're doing exactly what they are supposed to do, which is hold home court. But they're playing phenomenal team ball.

if youre not selling now, you never are!

[rman112]

Still time, but need stops.

[rman112]

Haha, wow. That kind of night!

[M4YH3M1]

OMG, those Raptors rings??!

[ninjacookies]

if youre not selling now, you never are!

My ROI algorithm model tell me has a 75% chance of becoming the next Trout though.



Wow that Van Vleet roll....

[PKIPP]

Fred Van Vleet looking like he dropping buckets at 9 pm but gotta cut someone's hair at midnight

[Jasondr91]

Where’s that exitblue idiot band wagoner at tonight? Must be doing a Yugioh box break.....

[Donkaylove]

Siakam with a no doubter game. diff maker today

[cnewby]

Where’s that exitblue idiot band wagoner at tonight? Must be doing a Yugioh box break.....

Dont expect to hear from him for a few days.

[ninjacookies]

Where’s that exitblue idiot band wagoner at tonight? Must be doing a Yugioh box break.....

Unannounced overtime shifts during the biggest series of the year hurt the most.

[rman112]

Where’s that exitblue idiot band wagoner at tonight? Must be doing a Yugioh box break.....

Yugioh! (Asian guy in 16 Blocks voice)

[pennywise]

Fred Van Vleet looking like he dropping buckets at 9 pm but gotta cut someone's hair at midnight

Lolol blowout needs a "like" feature.

[rman112]

Iguodala tweaked his leg. No bueno.

[Siberian13]

Hope Iggy is ok

[CubKings]

Lil Stephanie flailing again. Can't stand him.

[pgisback]

Unannounced overtime shifts during the biggest series of the year hurt the most.

Haha!

[rman112]

One of these players needs to give Drake a nice open hand slap.

[exitmusicblue]

Sure coulda used KD. }:-)

It's not the non-Dub fan prattle that annoys. It's the internal dissension from Steph homers... we are still one team.

[cnewby]

Lil Stephanie flailing again. Can't stand him.

Complete garbage.

[kd the sniper]

Lil Stephanie flailing again. Can't stand him.Every damn shot

Sent from my LG-H872 using Tapatalk

[Jasondr91]

Dont expect to hear from him for a few days.

:cry:

[nman84]

RIP cheap Siakam cards.


Damnit.

Was pretty easy to see what kind of potential he had early this season.


If Raps win, I'm not getting too excited. They're doing exactly what they are supposed to do, which is hold home court. But they're playing phenomenal team ball.

Siakam cards only go up if Kawhi leaves this summer

[Melagoo]

Saikam

[pennywise]

Thank you, Raptors. Thank you.