Good morning. Let’s basketball.
The Cavaliers are unstoppable on American soil
Good morning. We have that and more in Thursday’s NBA newsletter.
DINO ON THE BARBIE: The Cavaliers utterly destroyed the Raptors essentially from the tip, winning 116-78. It was as un-entertaining as it sounds. Toronto needs to win at home on Friday to survive. LeBron James is one win from his sixth consecutive NBA Finals. (This Shea Serrano flowchart is spot-on.)
SWEAT? Before the game, Paul Flannery and I discussed the Raptors’ surprising home sweep and whether the Cavs should be worried. So much for that.
ON THE AIR TONIGHT: The Warriors’ first elimination game in two years. This game is so serious Steve Kerr is forced to implore fans to show up on time. 9 p.m. ET tip on TNT.
DRAG ME DOWN: I wrote that Draymond Green’s ineffectiveness in the past two games is hurting Stephen Curry’s ability to pop off. Some folks have used that line of argument to suggest it reflects poorly on Steph because his greatness relies on the greatness of others. To that I say: duh? A weaponized point forward that prevents hard traps on Steph is part and parcel of Warriors’ excellence. Are we just learning this? Just because he was the unanimous MVP doesn’t mean he can keep up the excellence when his most important co-star is playing like trash.
By the way, here’s what Draymond had to say about Game 4 the day after. I really, really enjoyed Dan Devine’s piece on Draymond’s dud, too.
HOW ABOUT THAT? How Andre Roberson is making the Warriors pay.
PRIME TIME: Zach Lowe on the Thunder in their prime.
BASKETBALL IN HIS BLOOD: Ricky O’Donnell’s feature on Henry Ellenson, a 7-foot lottery pick from Marquette. He learned how to shoot to beat his big brothers back in grade school. Always a good reason for skill development.
CLEVELAND’S OTHER MARKETING STAR: The always great Alex Wong on the burgeoning coffee empire of Matthew Dellavedova. I think this fan sitting courtside and hollering at Dwane Casey should switch to Decaf Delly next time, though ...
RENAISSANCE MAN: Marc Spears on Jaylen Brown for The Undefeated.
INTERESTING: An argument that sports are killing the advent of “skinny bundles” of cable networks. Via REDEF.
THIS IS A GOD DREAM: The Eater Guide to the Whole Entire World. This is so clutch for anyone traveling this summer.
Happy Thursday. See you next time.
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Bismack Biyombo should be your new favorite player
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