For the past two years, the NBA has probably seen some of the most memorable Finals matches ever. Especially with the historic 3-1 comeback the Cleveland Cavaliers had over the Golden State Warriors which brings their finals matchup to an even 1-1. The two teams are on top of each of their respective conferences and are looking to make a record breaking 3 straight finals matchups.
Now, on that statistic alone, people would consider that the two teams have a rivalry. Not for Lebron James. He said in an interview with Fox Sports before their Monday night matchup, "I don't think we have a rival in our game today. I think we played those guys (San Antonio Spurs) more, so I wouldn't look at it as rivals." If playing in two consecutive finals and having one of the most anticipated regular season matchups doesn't make you rivals in the King's book, it makes you wonder what it is.
Not only that, LeBron has made seem like would downplay the Warriors at every opportunity. First, it was him taking a jab at Curry when he said: "I think the word 'valuable' or best player of the year, you can have different results" when asked about Steph Curry's unanimous MVP award. Although, James added: "That's not taking anything from anyone that's ever won the award" as per ESPN.
LeBron also held a "3-1 lead" themed Halloween party after they won the title last year. The party had matching tombstone cookies with the names of Steph Curry and Klay Thompson, and a dummy of Curry by the front door which guests had to walk over. As if winning the title wasn't enough, he had to find a way to rub it in some more.
The two teams might not be rivals in the eyes of King James, but the Warriors and the Cavs are certainly the most anticipated rivalry in the NBA today. Certainly, a 3rd finals bout between the two teams would, not only hold a tiebreaker with their finals records but would also be the dream matchup for every basketball fan.
