The 2019 NBA Finals MVP: Steph Curry or Kawhi Leonard—Who Won It All?
The 2019 NBA Finals presented a thrilling encounter between the Golden State Warriors and the Toronto Raptors, with exceptional performances from both Stephen Curry and Kawhi Leonard. The question of who came out on top in the MVP race is a highly debated one. Let’s break down the key moments and performances that led to the decision, focusing on the defensive prowess and clutch plays of both players.
Clutch Performances and Game-Winning Moments
When we look at the 2019 NBA Finals, one-on-one battles often highlight the better player. Kawhi Leonard, known for his defensive prowess, would undoubtedly dominate against Stephen Curry. With Kawhi’s ability to knack down shots and his relentless defense, he often forced his will on his opponents, making him a formidable force.
During the series, Kawhi demonstrated his clutch ability consistently, leading devastating game-winning drives when his team needed him the most. His versatile offensive skills and leadership helped the Raptors navigate the playoffs, culminating in a hard-fought championship. This is why Kawhi was awarded the Finals MVP, highlighting his performance and leadership throughout the series.
On the other hand, while Steph Curry had his share of exceptional plays, including notable performance during the NBA All-Star game, his consistency was a mixed bag. He faltered in crucial moments, leading to criticisms of his clutchness. Although Curry is undoubtedly a one-of-a-kind player, his performance in the 2019 Finals left room for improvement.
Why Limit the Choices?
While Curry and Leonard are the most likely candidates, it’s important to consider alternative options. If the Raptors won and had an excellent but not mind-blowing performance from Kawhi, Serge Ibaka or Pascal Siakam could be interesting choices. They played crucial roles in the Raptors’ success and could have been deserving MVP candidates.
Similarly, in a scenario where the Warriors won, Draymond Green could be a contender based on his leadership and defensive contributions. Green’s game-changing impact and ability to take over critical moments could make him a worthy MVP even if the Warriors won.
Defense and Impact
Kawhi Leonard’s defense is widely regarded as one of the best in the league. His ability to shut down key players and disrupt opposing teams is unparalleled. In the 2019 Finals, his defensive presence played a significant role in the Raptors’ success. His impact cannot be underestimated, making him an obvious choice for the Finals MVP.
However, it’s worth noting that the Warriors will likely still win the series due to their overall strength and star power. Even if the losing team, the award often goes to the standout player on the winner. This was the case with Iguodala in a previous series where he received the award despite LeBron’s dominance in individual statistics.
Personal Opinion and Final Thoughts
Although I am a Stephen Curry fan, I recognize the exceptional abilities of Kawhi Leonard. Both players are amazing both on and off the court, but I would argue that Kawhi is the better player overall. Curry is one of a kind, renowned for being the best NBA shooter and the first to achieve a unanimous MVP award back-to-back. His skills are unmatched, and he shows up when it truly matters.
In conclusion, while both Stephen Curry and Kawhi Leonard had significant roles in the 2019 NBA Finals, Kawhi Leonard was the standout player and deservedly won the Finals MVP due to his clutch performances, leadership, and defensive prowess. However, it’s always interesting to explore alternative MVP candidates, highlighting the depth and star power of the NBA.