The Toronto Raptors Down Warriors With No Klay Thompson
The big story coming into game three of the NBA Finals was would Klay Thompson play or sit. The decision came right down to 20 minutes before game time and Thompson was eventually ruled out, that was a big deal as the Toronto Raptors stomped the Golden State Warriors 123-109. With the win, Toronto took a 2-1 series lead.
This was about as complete a game that the Raptors have played this entire postseason as they got contributions all over the place. The entire starting lineup scored in double figures and Fred VanVleet added 11 off the bench as well as Serge Ibaka adding a physical presence with six blocks.
Kawhi Leonard has been a constant for this team as he poured in 30 points, collected seven rebounds, and got others involved dishing out six assists. However, more impressive were the performances of the role players for Toronto.
Let's begin with Kyle Lowry as he showed up in a big way with 23 points with 5-9 from downtown, breaking down the defense with nine assists, and only committed three fouls which had been a problem for Lowry.
Danny Green nailed 6-10 three's going for 18 points and had a huge chase down block on a Warriors fast break opportunity. In addition, Marc Gasol tallied 17 points and seven rebounds in just 26 minutes played.
For the Warriors, it seemed like whenever they went to make a run the Raptors would answer and increase their lead to double-digits once again. Steph Curry was incredible, attempting to carry this team on his back with 47 of the teams 109 points on 14-31 shooting, 6-14 from distance.
Unfortunately for Golden State none of the role players could step up and help Curry score as Draymond Green poured in 17 and Andre Iguodala had 11.
Game four will get underway from Golden State on Friday at 8 p.m. CST.