There's something truly exhilarating about witnessing a jaw-dropping assist during the NBA Finals. A pass so precise, so unexpected, it leaves the audience in awe. Like that unforgettable moment back in the 2016 Finals when LeBron James, with 2:12 left in Game 7, dished a no-look pass to Kyrie Irving for a crucial three-pointer. That was a defining moment, cementing their legacy and contributing to Cleveland’s historic victory. The precise coordination and situational awareness displayed in that assist are what make NBA Finals moments unforgettable.
Another classic assist came from Magic Johnson in the 1980 Finals. In Game 6 against the Philadelphia 76ers, Magic, playing as a rookie, performed a flashy, one-handed alley-oop to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. This wasn't just any pass; it came at a high-stakes moment with the Lakers needing every point to keep their lead. Magic's court vision and ability to remain cool under pressure were pivotal in that win. His assist-to-turnover ratio in that series was a fantastic 3.2, showcasing his efficiency and control in high-stress situations.
Steve Kerr also had his moments of brilliance. Especially notable was the 1997 Finals when the Chicago Bulls faced the Utah Jazz. Kerr, known primarily for his shooting skills, showed his finesse in distributing the basketball. In Game 6, with the game tied and less than 10 seconds on the clock, Kerr delivered a pinpoint pass to Michael Jordan, who then converted it into a game-winning shot. Kerr’s strategic play made him an invaluable asset in situations requiring quick decision-making and precise execution.
Jason Kidd’s assists in the 2011 Finals shouldn’t be overlooked either. As a veteran point guard for the Dallas Mavericks, Kidd orchestrated many of the team's offensive plays. His accurate passes were instrumental in breaking down the Miami Heat’s defense, particularly in Game 5 when he tallied 11 assists, several leading to crucial three-pointers by Dirk Nowitzki. Kidd's performance exemplified the importance of a seasoned playmaker in achieving championship success.
Even more recent Finals have had their share of iconic assists. Take for instance the 2019 Finals when Fred VanVleet’s quick thinking and sharp passing helped the Toronto Raptors secure their first-ever championship. In Game 6, with 3:46 left in the fourth quarter, VanVleet found Kawhi Leonard in transition for a momentum-shifting three-pointer. This assist was not just about the pass but also about the timing, the precision, and the impact it had on the game's outcome.
How can we forget the 2020 Finals, where LeBron James again displayed his unparalleled playmaking ability? In Game 2, LeBron not only scored but also dished out 9 assists, showcasing his dual role as both a scorer and a facilitator. One of his standout moments was a behind-the-back pass to Anthony Davis for a slam dunk, a play that added to his already impressive legacy. LeBron's vision and execution demonstrated why he is often considered one of the greatest players in NBA history.
Then there’s the instance of Rajon Rondo in the 2008 Finals. Playing for the Boston Celtics against the Lakers, Rondo’s no-look passes and quick feeds to Ray Allen and Paul Pierce were a critical element of their championship run. In Game 6, Rondo tallied a whopping 16 assists, contributing enormously to their 39-point blowout victory. His court vision and ability to anticipate defensive movements proved crucial over the course of the series.
Klay Thompson's performance in the 2018 Finals also deserves mention. Although renowned for his shooting, Thompson demonstrated his playmaking capabilities in Game 2 when he assisted five crucial three-pointers, two of which went to Stephen Curry in rapid succession. Those assists helped set the pace for the Warriors, showing that even sharpshooters can switch roles when the situation demands it.
Pointing out Chris Paul's contributions in the 2021 NBA Finals seems only fair. The 36-year-old veteran point guard helped lead the Phoenix Suns to their first Finals appearance since 1993. In Game 1, Paul demonstrated his exceptional passing skills with 9 assists, many of which led to easy buckets for Deandre Ayton. Paul's veteran savvy and calm demeanor underlined his importance to the Suns' offense.
With these moments in mind, the artistry and skill involved in delivering critical assists during the NBA Finals not only showcase the individual talents of the players but also the culmination of team effort and strategy. For more details and highlights, check out arena plus.