If there was one play that stood out from the 2017-2018 NBA Finals, it would be without question, J.R. Smith’s blunder in the dying seconds of game one regulation. For those who live under a rock and haven’t heard about it, here’s how it unfolded. The Cavs were down one, and George Hill was fouled by Klay Thompson below the basket. Hill hit the first free throw tying the game, but missed the second. Smith came up with a spectacular offensive rebound with four seconds left in the game. Instead of going for a shot in the paint, he dribbled it out past the three-point line.
How huge was that mistake? It may be bigger than you think and it may have cost the Cavs more than just one game.
First, that blunder woke up the Warriors. Before overtime, the Warriors played listlessly and were overconfident throughout game one. The Dubs never again slept throughout the finals.
Second and perhaps more importantly, Smith’s blunder could’ve killed any hopes of Lebron James staying in Cleveland. Think about it. James gave everything and the kitchen sink to take the Cavs to within 4 seconds of victory over the defending champs. And there’ his epic playoff performance. James had been vocal about needing support – and then J.R. Smith happened.
Yes. That was a pretty huge mistake.
Living in Cleveland, Ohio, George Ammar supports the Cleveland Cavaliers. Learn more about him and the stuff he loves, here.
George Ammar Cleveland, Ohio 