The Golden State Warriors will be eyeing a third successive crown when they take on the Toronto Raptors in the NBA Finals.
Steph Curry, Kevin Durant et al have proved too formidable for the Cleveland Cavaliers in the best-of-seven showpiece in the last two years but now face a fresh challenge as they target a hat-trick of titles.
Here, Press Association Sport looks at some of the talking points ahead of the showdown.
Who are the favourites?
The presence of LeBron James does not loom large over the season-ending tie for the first time in nine years, allowing others the opportunity to step out of his considerable shadow. Two-time NBA MVP Curry is pivotal for Golden State in the initial absence of Durant while Klay Thompson has had another good season. The Raptors have been enhanced by the acquisitions of Kawhi Leonard and Danny Green to their ranks from the San Antonio Spurs last year.
How will Toronto handle the pressure
Toronto may have a slight mental edge after overcoming the Warriors in both of their regular season meetings. They edged the first encounter, 131-128 after overtime, in November despite Durant pouring in 51 points for the defending NBA champions, who were downed 113-93 the following month. However, Golden State are in the Finals for the fifth straight year and will undoubtedly prove a tougher opponent on the grandest stage.
