Subscribe
Follow Us
After beating the Dallas Mavericks handily in the Western Conference Finals, the Golden State Warriors are looking to recapture their championship glory and bring the Larry O'Brien Trophy back to the Bay Area. During the conference finals, the Warriors got key performances from Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, and Jordan Poole.
With Curry leading the way, the Dubs have had a well-balanced attack all playoffs long. Now standing in their way is a deep and determined Boston Celtics squad that will give them their biggest test of the season. On that note, let's now take a look at who the Warriors' x-factor will be during the 2022 NBA Finals, cause it clearly won't be Steph Curry.
Warriors' X-Factor in 2022 NBA Finals: Kevon Looney
During their series clinching win against the Mavericks in Game 5, Kevon Looney posted 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 assists while shooting 63% from the field. Given that the Warriors lack depth at the center spot, Looney's play will be vital for them during the championship round. Looney has been a key component for the Dubs during their recent run of success.
As they aim to capture their first NBA title since 2018, Looney's rebounding, shot blocking, and points in the paint will be an absolute must for the Warriors as they'll be going up against a superior Celtics frontcourt featuring Robert Williams III, Grant Williams, and Al Horford. Draymond Green's elite defensive presence adds some depth and versatility for the Warriors, but Looney's play has also been huge for them up to this point.
So if they're hoping to bring home the gold and reclaim their spot as the team-to-beat in the NBA, then Looney will have to bring his A-game. Golden State can beat teams in a variety of ways, so Looney won't carry the burden for them. Plus they've still been one of the best rebounding teams in the NBA during the postseason even with their lack of size.
However, Looney's stellar play in the restricted area is an added bonus for them and could give them an edge in this super physical winner-take-all battle for the league crown. Time and again, Looney has created more scoring chances for the Warriors and made crucial stops for them on defense with his innate rebounding ability.
Despite not being the most skilled player out there, his presence on the court still makes Golden State better. With his elusiveness and strength, Looney also gets put backs and lobs to give the Warriors some scoring down low. As they hope to win their fourth title in franchise history, Golden State will need a whole lot more of this from Looney.
Seeing as James Wiseman's been sidelined all year long, Looney has been Golden State's go-to big man. Green has given him a ton help on the frontline, but outside of that the Warriors are relatively thin at the center spot. So if they want to continue their impressive in the NBA Finals, then Looney must provide them with a ton of activity on both ends of the floor and make pivotal plays for them throughout the series.
