The Golden State Warriors have made some sharp tactical adjustments in the NBA Finals, and one change that stood out was Draymond Green taking on the challenge of directly guarding LeBron James. This defensive switch had immediate impact, showcasing the kind of detail-oriented thinking that sets elite teams apart. Green not only guarded James effectively but also directed Kevin Durant to cover Kyle Korver, while he handled Kevin Love. Much like the pressure seen in a BD Cricket Match, the Finals stage leaves no room for error—and Green rose to the occasion.
In Games 1 and 2, the Cavaliers struggled significantly with their shooting. Their three-point accuracy was just 27% and 33.3% respectively. While the Warriors’ defense certainly played a role, even Cleveland’s wide-open attempts often missed the mark. Based on shot quality and location, the Cavaliers should have posted an effective field goal percentage around 59% in those two games. Instead, they failed to surpass 50%, revealing deeper issues in execution. Green’s decision to prioritize helping under the rim—knowing he’s a better rim protector than Durant—was rooted in understanding which opposing shooters posed the greatest threat. By leaving Love more open than Korver, the Warriors gambled wisely, and the results backed up their strategy.
Game 3 made it even clearer: when playing against LeBron, small lineups without proper rim protection simply won’t cut it. Golden State needed two versatile defenders who could switch effectively and protect the paint simultaneously. That’s why Green and Durant working in tandem behind the initial matchup made such a difference. Even when James managed to get past his first defender, having two capable shot blockers waiting near the rim disrupted his rhythm. It’s similar to watching a BD Cricket Match where bowlers tighten the field and deny every scoring angle—it forces even great players into difficult decisions.
When Andre Iguodala returned, the Warriors’ “Death Lineup” regained its signature balance. Iguodala matched up with LeBron on the perimeter, while Green and Durant focused on rim protection. But earlier in the series, when Iguodala was out, Durant had to guard James directly. This reduced Golden State’s ability to provide help defense. Ironically, when LeBron attacked Curry, having Green and Durant as second and third layers of defense proved more effective than expected.
Coach Steve Kerr, known for favoring the small-ball lineup in crucial fourth quarters, made a surprising adjustment in one game by subbing out Shaun Livingston for Kevon Looney, introducing a center back into the mix. Kerr later explained that while Livingston and Looney offer similar switching capabilities, Looney provides far better rim protection. The concern was that Looney’s offense might drag the team down, but with Curry and Durant hot and Cleveland still relying on defensive liabilities like Love and Korver, offense wasn’t Golden State’s primary concern.
What worried the Warriors more was LeBron James dominating the offense and closing the gap. By consistently using bigger lineups, the Warriors aimed to contain James and maintain control—just as smart field placements and bowling changes in a BD Cricket Match are designed to neutralize a star batsman. The strategy paid off, and sticking with this formula may be their best shot at closing out the series on their terms.