Golden State Warriors forward Kevin Durant (35) warms up before Game 5 of the NBA Finals against the Toronto Raptors in Toronto, Monday, June 10, 2019. (Frank Gunn/The Canadian Press via AP)
Kevin Durant is back, and the Golden State Warriors couldn’t miss to open Game 5 of the NBA Finals.
The Warriors were 5 for 5 from 3-point range in the first 5 minutes to build a quick early lead over the Toronto Raptors. Durant made his first two shots, both from beyond the arc.
The early trouble spot for the Warriors is Klay Thompson’s foul situation — he picked up quick two personals.
Durant’s return to the Golden State Warriors’ starting lineup sent DeMarcus Cousins to the backup unit.
It was the “Hamptons 5” to start Game 5 for the defending champions.
The Warriors started Game 5 of the NBA Finals with Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson at guard, with Durant, Draymond Green and Andre Iguodala in the frontcourt.
Golden State has gone 3-2 in these playoffs when starting that lineup.
Toronto enters the night leading the series 3-1 and seeking its first NBA title. The Raptors usual lineup has started Game 5: Kyle Lowry and Danny Green at guard, Kawhi Leonard and Pascal Siakam at forward and Marc Gasol at center.