Along with the chance to win their second NBA title in three years Friday night, the Golden State Warriors will look to do something that's never been done in the NBA: Finish the postseason a perfect 16-0.
After a comeback win in Game 3, the Warriors have opened a 3-0 lead over the Cleveland Cavaliers. None of the 126 NBA teams to fall behind 3-0 in a playoff series came back to win that series.
So, will the Warriors make history, or will the Cavs take one step toward making some history of their own?
ABC15 sports anchor Jason Snavely
Well, heading into this series, I expected the Cavs to win one game in Cleveland, head back to Oakland down 3-1, and the Warriors would close it out in five games. But after that devastating loss in Game 3, I think it’s very likely the Warriors break out the brooms tonight for a Finals (and postseason) sweep.
I know... sweeps at this level are very rare. A postseason sweep has never happened -- in any sport. But I think we’re dealing with a team that may go down as the best in NBA history. Not only will they win this year’s NBA title, but also several more in the near future.
The dynasty has begun, and it will be emphasized when they sweep the defending champions along with the best player in the world. LeBron and company will play well again, but much like the first three games, Golden State will prove they just have too many weapons to contain. Series over. Warriors 114, Cavaliers 109
ABC15.com sportswriter Shane Dale
Eight of the 12 teams to jump out to a 3-0 lead in the NBA Finals have gone on to complete the sweep. Combine that with the possibility that the Cavs' spirits were broken after Wednesday's bitter defeat at home, and you're looking at a good chance the Warriors make it nine out of 13.
However, I think LeBron James is too stubborn to go down without a fight, and he doesn't want a second NBA Finals sweep added to his legacy. Look for a desperate Cavs team to find a way to extend the series for at least one more game.
That wouldn't be such a bad thing for the Warriors, who would miss the chance to finish the playoffs 16-0 but would have a chance to clinch in front of their home fans in a Game 5 on Monday. It also wouldn't be bad for the NBA, who would benefit from the additional revenue another game would bring. Cavaliers 112, Warriors 109
