On Wednesday September 30th the NBA Finals begins and it features The Los Angeles Lakers and the Miami Heat. This NBA Finals has many stories with many being centered around the fact that Lebron James is going up against his former team in the Miami Heat. Also, this is the first time in NBA History that 2 teams who missed the previous season are in the NBA Finals. Both teams dominated their way to the NBA Finals with both losing just 3 games. We will look at what are some things that each needs to do to win the NBA Championship and provide X factor players for each team
Miami Heat
The Miami Heat got to the finals by being great at playing team defense and being great in close games in the 4th quarter. They were one of the best 3-point shooting teams in the NBA this season and continued that trend in the playoffs including hitting timely shots to extend leads. The Heat are extremely versatile on defense and can switch multiple positions which will come in handy when playing the Lakers. For the Heat to win they must continue playing their tenacious 2-3 zone and make sure they box out. When you play zone, it can lead to giving offensive rebounds at times and the Lakers are the last team you want to give extra possessions to. Jimmy Butler must continue to be the swift army knife on defense as he will be going guard Lebron James majority of the series.
X Factor
The X factor for the Miami Heat will be rookie Tyler Herro. He has proven he is not afraid of the big moment by averaging over 19 points in the Eastern Conference Finals. This includes a 37 point performance in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals. He will have to elevate game once more for the Heat to win which include averaging 20 points, and 5 assists. If he does this the Heat will have a chance to win.
Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers got to the Finals based on strong performances from Lebron James and Anthony Davis. This Anthony Davis first finals appearance and all eyes will be on him to see how he performs. The key for the Lakers to win is to play discipline perimeter defense and not fouling the 3 point shooters of the Heat. Also, they will have to be sure to not let up against the Heat because they will always continue to fight until the final buzzer. This will be Lebron’s 10 NBA Finals appearance.
X Factor
The X Factor for the Lakers will be Dwight Howard. He is a veteran player who has been to the finals back in 2009 and he will be looking to finally capture a championship ring. Also Howard will be a key reserve to help with guarding Bam Adebayo. He will need to be physical when helping to the contain what can be considered a younger version of himself who can handle the ball. Howard played well in the Western Conference Finals and will look to continue and turn back the clock for 4 more games.
Prediction
My NBA Finals is that the Los Angeles Lakers will win in 6 games and that Anthony Davis will be named NBA Finals MVP.
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