Warriors roll right through the Spurs in Game 3: 3 takeaways

The Warriors haven’t looked threatened for a moment in this series. Their Game 3 victory over the Spurs was no different.

The backdrop for Game 3 between the Warriors and the Spurs was news of the tragic passing of Gregg Popovich’s wife Erin on Wednesday. Popovich was not on the sidelines, the Spurs were led instead by assistant coach Ettore Messina. The Warriors were still the Warriors.

Golden State won all four quarters, slowly building up the final 13-point margin of victory, one which gives them a 3-0 series lead and all but assures they’ll be moving on, perhaps for a matchup with the New Orleans Pelicans. The Spurs still have another game at home but things bigger than basketball are pushing their way in and this could be over quickly.

Not included in the takeaways but worth mentioning, were pregame reports that Stephen Curry may not be ready for the beginning of the second round. Also, Kevin Durant suffered an injury in this game but said he’ll be ready to play in Game 4.

Takeaways

The Warriors have moved beyond the 3-pointer. The 3-point shot has defined the Warriors over the past few seasons but they’ve transcended that focus this year. During the regular season they ranked 15th in 3-point rate after finishing in the top-7 each of the last three years. Durant’s ability to score efficiently from anywhere, particularly in the mid-range has allowed the offensive system to evolve into something different. That’s how Golden State can shoot 31.3 percent on 32 3-point attempts and still win a playoff game by 13 points.

The Spurs have not moved beyond the 3-pointer. Obviously LaMarcus Aldridge has been the driving force for the Spurs offense all season long, but he can only do so much and one of the advantages of his post game is the pressure it puts on the defense and the space it can create on the perimeter. The Spurs 7-of-33 on 3-pointers in this game, including a combined 3-of-15 from Patty Mills, Manu Ginobili and Danny Green. They have to score inside and out to beat the Warriors, one half of that equation isn’t enough.

Next: We can reimagine Kevin Durant if he can reimagine himself

This is the end. According to 538, the Spurs’ odds of advancing have shrunk to just 3 percent. It’s such a discouraging way to end the season but this may be the end of the Spurs as we know them. Kawhi Leonard may have already played his last game in a Spurs uniform. Danny Green and Rudy Gay have player options for next year. Tony Parker is a free agent. Manu Ginobili could retire. It’s been a remarkable run for the Spurs but it might be turn to start building that next dynasty.