Golden State Warriors’ Redemption: How Kevin Durant Changed the Game
The addition of Kevin Durant to the Golden State Warriors ahead of the 2016/17 NBA season was a move that turned the franchise into a formidable force. However, despite their star-studded roster, the Dubs faced a humbling defeat on Christmas Day against their arch-rivals, the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Reflecting on this pivotal moment more than seven years later, Draymond Green recently shared insights into how the loss served as a catalyst for their eventual triumph in the 2017 NBA championship.
In the latest episode of The Draymond Green Show, the veteran forward delved into the team’s struggles during that time, acknowledging their failure to fully integrate Durant into their gameplay by Christmas. This deficiency played to the advantage of their opponents, resulting in a narrow 109-108 victory for the Cavs on their home turf, amplifying the Warriors’ frustrations.
However, it was Durant’s response to the defeat that marked a turning point in the season. Green recounted Durant’s reassurance to Stephen Curry after the game, where he conveyed his confidence in his ability to adapt and contribute to the team’s success.
This declaration not only alleviated pressure from Curry but also revitalized the entire roster. As Green recalled, “That unlocked Steph. That unlocked Kevin. We beat them two weeks later by 50 points.”
Durant’s astute understanding of the dynamics surrounding his arrival and his display of self-assurance injected a renewed sense of confidence into the Warriors’ lineup. This newfound synergy catalyzed a series of dominant performances, propelling the team to the top of the Western Conference with an impressive 67-15 record.
The trio of Curry, Durant, and Klay Thompson emerged as offensive powerhouses, each averaging over 20 points per game during the regular season. Moreover, Durant’s defensive prowess saw a significant improvement, with notable contributions in blocks and rebounds.
The Warriors’ postseason journey further underscored their transformation, as they swept through their conference playoff games to set up a rematch with the Cavaliers in the NBA Finals. With Durant leading the charge, the Warriors secured a convincing 4-1 series win, culminating in Durant being crowned Finals MVP. Their postseason dominance also saw them set an NBA record with a remarkable 16-1 run.
The defeat in Cleveland served as a pivotal moment that fueled the Warriors’ competitive spirit and propelled them to unprecedented success. The 2016/17 Golden State Warriors remain a benchmark for excellence in NBA history, showcasing a blend of talent, resilience, and determination that set them apart as one of the greatest teams of all time.