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The NBA will be down to a final four for this year soon, and the Western Conference Finals matchup is already set. The Golden State Warriors are of course the favorite, but here are five keys for the Oklahoma City Thunder to win the series.
5. Start Fast And Hold Leads
Getty ImagesGolden State has a long list of opponents they have buried with a perimeter shooting barrage. But if the Thunder can start games well, stem that potential tide and hold leads, they can beat the Warriors.
4. Centers Of Production
Getty ImagesSteven Adams and Enes Kanter have been a productive duo during the playoffs, and Billy Donovan has had them on the floor together at times. The Thunder have to defend the rim well and win the rebounding battle, with Adams and Kanter as the lead dogs.
3. Superstar Power
Getty ImagesKevin Durant and Russell Westbrook seem to have turned a playoff corner in taking down the Spurs. To beat Golden State, a repeat of that performance has to come from both of Oklahoma City's stars.
2. Frustrate Draymond Green
Getty ImagesGreen often openly expresses emotions during games. If the Thunder can frustrate him to a level of ineffectiveness, or get him to say some magic words to an official, the Warriors don't have anyone who can replace Green on both ends of the floor.
1. Make Stephen Curry Uncomfortable
Getty ImagesSetting aside any lingering issues with his knee, the Thunder have to challenge Curry on both ends of the floor. Getting him into defensive mismatches, and attacking screens meant to give him open looks, would be a great path to doing so.
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