The Cleveland Cavaliers have fought themselves back into the Finals, winning game three at home in dominating fashion. Though the Golden State Warriors still lead the series 2-1 and are the overwhelming favorites, there is just a tinge of doubt now regarding the the defending champs.
Most troubling for the Warriors has been the play of their point guard Stephen Curry. The unanimous MVP this season, Curry has been mostly nonexistent in the Finals, with a decent game two and a good third quarter in game three as his only calling cards. Curry knows he has been sub-par, whether he is injured or not, and talked about his play after the game:
“I have to play 100 times better,” Curry admitted. “I didn’t play my game. I’m disappointed I didn’t help my team win.”
But while many will focus on Steph’s shooting in these three games, and rightfully so, his defense (especially in game three) has been where he’s really struggled and often looked abysmal. His poor play defensively as well his recent penchant for turning the ball over even had Steve Kerr bench his best player at one point:
“I would’ve done the same thing,” said Curry. “He’s trying to figure some life and a way to get me going.”
“I had a couple of lapses where I didn’t follow the gameplan, and Kyrie gets an easy layup, gets his confidence going,” he said. “I take the blame for that.”
At the very least, it appears that Curry is doing the right thing by taking the blame for the Warriors’ loss. Of course, he was not the only one to play poorly, but the play of the Warriors’ often emulates the play of their superstar. With Curry playing as poorly as he has, it was only a matter of time for the team to lay an egg.
However, words are of no use if they do not lead to action. Stephen Curry has taken the blame and put the onus on himself, but now he has to go on the basketball court and actually perform like the best player in the league.
