Golden State's 'Splash Brothers' stand as LeBron James' final obstacle

Updated



By JOHN DORN

Four more wins. That's how close LeBron James is from navigating the Cleveland Cavaliers to their city's first title in more than 50 years. With Kevin Love out and Kyrie Irving ailing, all is—once again—left to James to finally grab the elusive title.

But standing in the way are the 67-win Golden State Warriors, the league's most dominant team in 2015—or particularly, arguably the most dynamic duo the league has to offer.

In their fourth season together, Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson have evolved into much more than the pair of sharpshooters that earned them their famed moniker. Two three-point shooters alone wouldn't be nearly enough to stop LeBron's quest. This past season, the 'Splash Brothers' have amassed any and all expectations—both individually and as a team.

Curry, from an undersized combo guard to league MVP, and Thompson, from flawed specialist to legitimate two-way threat, have made the necessary leaps. Now, they stand as a rare force that can outlast the best player in the world.

Splash Brothers Playoff Stats PointAfter


Combining for 48.9 points a night, Curry and Thompson have outscored LeBron and Kyrie Irving's 46.3. Both Splash Brother are shooting at 46 percent from the field and over 42.5 percent from the three-point line.

Almost a year after the Warriors were reportedly asked to ship Thompson out to Minnesota in exchange for Kevin Love, Klay is now in the position to knock off Love's new team as one of the Warriors' LeBron-stopping options.

Now, the Cavs are without Love. They'll likely be without a healthy Irving. Cleveland's title hopes are once again in James' hands, but for the first time in years, he'll be facing a force that's strong enough to neutralize him.

Relive the Warriors' road to the Finals:



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