3 Golden State Warriors that proved invaluable in conference finals

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MAY 20: Kevon Looney #5 of the Golden State Warriors celebrates a dunk with teammates at the end of the third quarter against the Dallas Mavericks in Game Two of the 2022 NBA Playoffs Western Conference Finals at Chase Center on May 20, 2022 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by David Berding/Getty Images) /

Golden State Warriors WCF standout: Kevon Looney

Kevon Looney could’ve been Western Conference Finals MVP. While I would’ve been thoroughly shocked, I would’ve seen crazier things before as Looney played an incredibly important role, especially in this matchup.

Dwight Powell had no answer for Looney on the glass, and his defense on superstar guard Luka Doncic was terrific. Doncic thrives off being bigger and/or quicker than his opponent, and Looney provided ample size and rim protection to help defend the star.

Looney ended the series averaging 10.6 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3 assists. He hauled in 3.8 offensive boards per game as well.

The Warriors outrebounded Dallas in four of the five games, and Looney played a factor in each. He had 18 rebounds in the series-ending Game 5. On top of all that, he ended the series shooting 70.6% from the field.

Looney’s efficiency was just as important as his rebounding. His intelligence coupled with his screens helped the Dubs’ offense flow flawlessly. It was easily the best series Looney has played throughout his six-year career.

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