Warriors-Celtics defining stat: Offensive rebounds
The Golden State Warriors had a major size issue when taking on the Memphis Grizzlies. It seemed like the matchup caused such a problem for Golden State that they opted to go small instead of giving heavy minutes to Kevon Looney.
Morant’s injury changed the course of the series as the Grizzlies opted to play Steven Adams and just terrorize the paint. That’s where Looney has stepped up and continued to thrive against the Mavericks. Looney and Andrew Wiggins have both been impressive on the glass.
The Warriors have ranked 7th in both offensive and defensive rebounding rate while the Celtics sit 11th and 10th respectively. In every game Golden State won their Western Conference Finals matchup, they outrebounded Dallas by double figures.
If that success continues, which it is doubtful to cause the expertise and experience of veteran forward Al Horford and elite defensive center Robert Williams, the Warriors would come out on top with ease.
Rebounding is going to play a major factor, and if Golden State can just sustain their edge on the glass, it should be a key difference-maker for the Dubs.