Let’s be real: The only way the Warriors will lose the NBA Finals is if they become their own worst enemies — and not just for one game, but for four games. It’s not going to happen, and certainly not against the Cavaliers as currently constituted. That said, LeBron James turned in such an outstanding Game One performance that an upset could have at least made the trek to the Larry O’Brien Trophy interesting. Put simply, he was, well, himself.
Unfortunately for James, his teammates were also, well, themselves. And while that is bad enough in any case, it’s fatal at its worst. Certainly, there can be no mistake more egregious — and in the sport’s grandest stage to boot — than that made by J.R. Smith, who thought the Cavaliers were ahead and dribbled out an offensive rebound at the end of regulation instead of taking a final shot (or passing to an open teammate who could have taken the final shot).
Heading into Game Two, the Warriors will be supremely confident knowing they took the Cavaliers’ best shot and won — and with help from the supposed opposition. Meanwhile, James cannot but be devastated and demoralized. He had been willing the wine and gold to victory, only to have Smith snatch failure from the throes of success. Yesterday, though, he displayed confidence; having had the benefit of a day’s worth of rest and rumination, he understood the need to lift the spirits of those around him and, at the same time, keep himself motivated.
How much James is able to put Game One behind him will impact how well he plays today. In any case, one thing is clear: He deserves better. After Game One and no matter how the rest of the series unfolds, the odds are very, very good he will leave the Cavaliers in the offseason.
Anthony L. Cuaycong has been writing Courtside since BusinessWorld introduced a Sports section in 1994.
