Game 1 of the NBA Finals resulted in perhaps the worst-case scenario for the Cleveland Cavaliers: After leading for most of the night, the Eastern Conference champions lost in overtime, and All-Star point guard Kyrie Irving sustained a season-ending knee injury.
Cleveland coach David Blatt thought Warriors shooting guard Klay Thompson caused the injury, per Dieter Kurtenbach of KNBR:
https://twitter.com/dkurtenbach/status/607274819944448000
Yes, Thompson was playing tight defense on Irving when the Cavaliers star fell to the court and was unable to move for a short while. Irving eventually limped off the floor.
From the replays available to the general public, it appears inconclusive. Thompson’s defense certainly wasn’t dirty, but opinions will be formed, regardless.
Does Blatt have a case? It’s a judgment call, so the decision is up to you.
Cleveland must rebound in a big way during Game 2, which tips off at 8 p.m. ET (ABC) on Sunday night at Oracle Arena.
Photo: USA Today Sports