The Golden State Warriors finally know their opponent in the upcoming 2022 NBA Finals after the Boston Celtics emerged victorious in Game 7 of their series against the Miami Heat with a 100-96 win. Ime Udoka's squad has proven that they are worthy of a shot at the title after going through several grueling matchups in these playoffs.
Meanwhile, on the other hand, the Warriors had a relatively easy path to the Finals. It will certainly be an exciting matchup between the two contenders, but from the looks of it, Steve Kerr's team has the edge in some key aspects which will help them add another title to their collection.
With that said, let's take a look at four reasons why Golden State will beat Boston in the 2022 NBA Finals.
*Watch NBA games LIVE with fuboTV (click for free trial)*
Why Warriors will beat Celtics in 2022 NBA Finals
4. The Warriors have home-court advantage
At this stage of the season, having home-court advantage is usually helpful, even if that wasn't the case in the Eastern Conference Finals. By having a better record than the Celtics during the regular season, the Warriors have home-court advantage in this year's NBA Finals.
Golden State is 9-0 so far at the Chase Center in these playoffs. While the Chase Center is no Oracle Arena, it is still an extremely difficult place to play for opposing teams. Boston has been resilient on the road in the playoffs, but this is a whole new challenge for them.
3. Steve Kerr's squad is more well-rested
The Warriors easily dispatched the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference Finals with a 4-1 series win. By quickly eliminating their opponent last Thursday, they have gained much-needed rest ahead of the NBA Finals, which begin on Thursday.
On the other hand, the Celtics just wrapped up their grueling series against the Miami Heat by winning Game 7 on Sunday. While the Thursday start to the Finals gives them a break, Boston just played consecutive seven-game series that were very physical.
Of course, though they are more well-rested, the Warriors must not fall into the trap of being rusty after having a week-long break come Game 1.
2. The Warriors have solid depth on the roster
The starting five of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, Andrew Wiggins, and Kevon Looney have given playoff teams a ton of problems as evidenced by the team's dominating wins in the postseason. Aside from them, they also have important contributors off the bench. It starts with Jordan Poole, but there are a number of other key depth pieces on the roster. This could make a difference, especially if they are healthy.
Andre Iguodala, Otto Porter Jr., and Gary Payton II are hoping to be back for the Finals. Nemanja Bjelica played a key role in the closeout win over Dallas. Rookies Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody have gotten important minutes in these playoffs, even if not consistent ones. Damion Lee and Juan Toscano-Anderson are deep on the depth chart. This goes to show how much depth the Warriors have on their current roster. Strength in numbers, as they say.
Yes, the Celtics have their own group of contributors, including Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Marcus Smart, Al Horford, and Robert Williams. Grant Williams is also a stud off the bench, and Payton Pritchard can really shoot it. However, it is safe to say that the Warriors' bench is more impactful and can produce at a higher level, especially if they get those key players back in the fold.
1. Stephen Curry and company have immense championship experience
Like their depth, the championship experience of the Warriors will also serve them well against a younger Celtics squad. Starting with the coach himself, Steve Kerr is no stranger to the NBA Finals. He has already steered this Warriors franchise to three titles and will make his sixth Finals appearance in eight seasons as head coach. Under his tutelage, the team's star core of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green continues to thrive when healthy.
Having this group that has already been on the championship stage and knows what it takes to win will be vital. On the contrary, the same can't be said for the Celtics, as they are being led by a rookie head coach in Ime Udoka. Their veteran guy in Al Horford is making the first Finals appearance of his 15-year career.
Moreover, key players like Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Marcus Smart have never been to the Finals. There will surely be some Finals jitters for them. By having a massive advantage in terms of experience while also boasting a talented and deep roster, the Warriors are in good position to win a fourth title since Kerr took over.
Follow Us
Subscribe