The Warriors went after Kevin Durant because of Kawhi Leonard
The Golden State Warriors now know who their opponent will be in the Western Conference Finals. They’ll be taking on the San Antonio Spurs. For many, this was the dream matchup in each of the last two seasons that is now finally becoming a reality.
The Warriors are significantly better than the Spurs. And they have been for the last few years. Golden State’s stars have flourished while San Antonio’s aging legends have declined.
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But while the dust from Tim Duncan’s legend settled, Kawhi Leonard rose. He is one of the league’s elite players and one of the best defenders this game has ever seen. He, single handedly, makes the Spurs one of the best teams in the league.
Leonard is a game-changer. His swarming defense can neutralize even the game’s top offensive players. That’s how dominant he is.
For years, Gregg Popovich has used Leonard to guard Stephen Curry during the game’s most crucial points. And, for several years, it worked. The Spurs star’s length, quickness, instincts, and incredible hands bothered the point guard.
Of course, in this league, great offensive players will find a way to get free and get their own. Over the last few seasons, Leonard’s presence hasn’t bothered Curry that much. He’s managed to get away, but it isn’t easy getting free from a two-time Defensive Player of the Year.
Now, when the Spurs would play the Oklahoma City Thunder, Leonard would match up with Kevin Durant. Because of his size, Durant had an easier time with Leonard. Still, a guy that good is going to bother you and make you earn every bucket.
In case you missed it, Curry and Durant now play on the same team. Which makes things a little complicated for Pop and the Spurs. Who does Leonard guard?
San Antonio’s coach is the greatest coach of all-time. He seems to always have another trick up his sleeve, especially once the playoffs roll around. Even in all his infinite basketball wisdom, it’s hard to imagine that he built a cloning machine.
And, to defend the Warriors probably, San Antonio would need two Leonards. Knowing that a matchup with the San Antonio Spurs was possible, the Warriors needed to somehow free up Curry. So they got Durant.
Leonard will spend more time on Durant than Curry. And even if he neutralizes one MVP, there’s another there. That’s why Kevin Durant is a Golden State Warrior.
In order to beat the Spurs, you have to find a way to get around Leonard. Having Curry and Durant together on the same team is supposed to help them do that. As great as he is, he can’t be in two places at once.
This is why having two generational weapons is important.