NBA Playoffs: Golden State Warriors emerge as favorites
By Tony Pesta
It’s hard to argue there has been a more dominant team than the Golden State Warriors through one week of NBA Playoff basketball. They’ve stormed off to a 3-0 series lead behind a wrecking ball lineup that has the rest of the league looking a tier below the Warriors.
The Golden State Warriors seem to be playing one step above the pack as we are one week into the 2022 NBA Playoffs. Here is a recap.
This isn’t to say the Warriors are the only team taking care of business. The Philadelphia 76ers are coasting to a potential sweep over the Toronto Raptors due to Joel Embiid’s game-winning shot in Game 3.
Yet, Embiid may have suffered a torn ligament in his thumb, dampening the MVP finalists’ chances of leading Philly to a championship. The same goes for Milwaukee, who has lost Khris Middelton indefinitely with a sprained MCL. There is no clear timetable for when Middleton will return.
In the West, the path is clearing for Golden State. Devin Booker’s hamstring injury has placed a question mark on the Phoneix Suns’ long-term ability to compete while the Memphis Grizzlies, as strong as they look, have already flashed inexperience against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Perhaps the Dallas Mavericks, who have claimed a 2-1 lead over the Utah Jazz even in spite of Luka Doncic’s injury, could pose a threat to the rolling Warriors. However, it remains unclear how much of a punch the Mavs can pack in a deep playoff run.
This brings us to the two teams who are not only rolling but have also managed to avoid injuries. The Boston Celtics have displayed a breathtaking ability to play defense, stunning Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving for a 2-0 series lead.
Meanwhile, the Miami Heat are being thrust back into the picture with Jimmy Butler leading an all-around team effort in the first round. There is no doubt the Heat are a team to watch as their versatility lends them to adapt to any matchup.
Even with all of this going on, the Warriors are the only team truly looking invincible. This could and probably will change at some point. For now, it’s the Dubs’ title to lose.