This series is more than just Curry vs LeBron. Fact. Yes the two are absolutely unstoppable when they get going and they’ll be the focal point of the respective opposition defences. But, the Golden State vs Cleveland match-up has more than what meets the eye.

For one, both teams are novices to this Finals experience. LeBron James led his franchise to the Finals once before in 2007, but the Cavaliers have never won a title. The Warriors haven’t been since 1975. Both teams are coached by rookie NBA coaches Steve Kerr and David Blatt (who coached professionally in Europe).

Klay Thompson has a concussion, LeBron James had to exhaust himself to get the ‘Ws’ against the Hawks, while Kyrie Irving has a troublesome knee.

But let’s get down to the interesting part. The Warriors shoot the lights out from beyond the arc. They are heavily reliant on it, but they are able to be so because aside from the ‘Splash Brothers’, they have sharpshooters all around. The Cavaliers’ perimeter defence is nothing to write home about. David Blatt will have to find a way to deal with this.

The Cavaliers cannot necessarily match the Warriors’ athleticism, but with the exceptionally-gifted Kevin Love missing, they may have to try to. Steph Curry is in the touch of his life and he will have to be matched not only personally, but his run and dish game will have to be contended with.

As always, when LeBron James is on the court for the opposition, he will be a headache for Steve Kerr. The job of contending with him will probably fall to the defensive ‘whiz’ Draymond Green. However, the Warriors perhaps should not focus too much on this, or else play into David Blatt’s hand. Andrew Bogut marshals his inside well and LeBron James’ mid-to-long range has always been his weakest attribute. They have the capability to deal with him, if they do not overthink it. They will have to let Blatt worry about getting Smith and Irving et al to support King James’ burden.

Finally, home advantage may play a big role in this series. The Oracle Arena is hands down the best atmosphere in the best NBA. When they get going, there team seems unstoppable at some points. That said, the ‘Q’ is also a place of dominance for the ‘King’ and his men. 

Our brave prediction: This series will not go to seven games. LeBron will fight hard but the Warriors have too much depth and a far more balanced game.