As I settle in to watch Game 1 of the NBA Finals, I can’t help but feel this series is personal. Golden State versus Toronto isn’t just a clash of teams—it’s a collision of narratives, styles, and individual battles that feel almost cinematic. Breaking down the key matchups in the NBA GSW vs Raptors championship series reveals more than just X’s and O’s; it’s about legacies, underdogs, and the kind of drama that keeps fans like me up at night. I’ve followed these teams for years, and this Finals feels different. Maybe it’s the absence of LeBron, or the Raptors’ first-ever Finals appearance, but something’s in the air.
Let’s start with the obvious: Stephen Curry against Kyle Lowry. On paper, it’s a mismatch. Curry, the two-time MVP and greatest shooter of all time, versus Lowry, the gritty, sometimes inconsistent All-Star. But anyone who’s watched the Raptors this postseason knows Lowry isn’t just a scorer—he’s the heart of that team. He sets the tone defensively, makes the extra pass, and isn’t afraid to take a charge. Still, Curry’s gravity is something else. He commands so much attention that he opens up the floor for everyone else. I remember watching him drop 37 in a closeout game against Portland, and thinking, "How do you even game plan for that?" The Warriors will try to exploit this matchup early, forcing Lowry to work on both ends. If Curry gets hot, it could be a short series.
Then there’s Kawhi Leonard versus… well, everyone. The Warriors don’t have one definitive stopper for him, so they’ll likely throw a committee—Draymond Green, Andre Iguodala, maybe even Klay Thompson in spots. Kawhi’s playoff run has been historic; he’s averaging over 31 points per game while playing lockdown defense. I’ve been a fan since his San Antonio days, but this version of Kawhi is something else—calm, unstoppable, almost machine-like. It reminds me of something I read recently about fandom and connection, where a player said, "Ako talaga ‘yung unang nag-follow [on social media] kasi matagal ko na siyang alam, nasa NU pa lang ako." That sense of early recognition, of knowing someone’s potential before the world catches on—that’s how I feel about Kawhi. I remember watching him at San Diego State, thinking he’d be good, but not this good. Now, he’s carrying a franchise, and the Warriors have no easy answer for him.
The big man battle is equally fascinating. Marc Gasol versus Draymond Green isn’t just about scoring; it’s about IQ, passing, and defensive positioning. Gasol has revitalized the Raptors since his mid-season acquisition. He’s shooting over 38% from three in the playoffs and provides a steadying presence. But Draymond? He’s the emotional engine of the Warriors. When he’s engaged, Golden State is almost unbeatable. I’ve seen him put up triple-doubles in the Finals, and his ability to guard all five positions is a nightmare for opponents. Still, Gasol’s size could bother the Warriors in the paint, especially if they go small. This might be the most underrated matchup of the series.
Off the bench, the Raptors have Fred VanVleet, who’s been clutch, and Serge Ibaka, who’s had moments of brilliance. But the Warriors’ depth, when healthy, is scary. Shaun Livingston, Kevon Looney, and even Quinn Cook can change games. I’ll admit, I’m biased here—I love the Warriors’ ball movement and unselfish play. But Toronto’s bench has outplayed expectations, and in a long series, that could matter. VanVleet’s defense on Curry in spurts might be a key, and if Ibaka hits his mid-range jumper consistently, it stretches the floor.
Let’s talk coaching. Steve Kerr versus Nick Nurse is a battle of wits. Kerr has the experience—three rings in four years—but Nurse has been creative, using box-and-one defenses and unexpected rotations. I think Nurse might have a trick or two up his sleeve, but Kerr’s calm under pressure is a huge advantage. Remember, the Warriors have been here before; this is their fifth straight Finals. That experience counts, especially in close games.
In terms of intangibles, home-court advantage goes to Toronto, which is huge. The Warriors are dealing with injuries—Kevin Durant is out for at least the start, and DeMarcus Cousins is working his way back. If Durant returns, it changes everything, but for now, the Raptors have a real shot. I’ve crunched some numbers in my head—Golden State’s offense is averaging around 118 points per game in the playoffs, while Toronto’s defense holds teams to about 104. Something’s got to give. Personally, I think the series goes six games, with the Warriors pulling it out because of their championship DNA. But if Kawhi goes supernova, don’t be surprised if the Raptors make history.
Ultimately, breaking down the key matchups in the NBA GSW vs Raptors championship series shows why basketball is the beautiful, unpredictable sport it is. It’s not just about stars; it’s about role players stepping up, coaches adjusting, and moments that define careers. As a fan, I’m just excited to watch it all unfold.
