In 2009 the Lakers beat Orlando 4-1; Kobe’s first title as the undisputed leader ended the “Shaq’s shadow” tag.
In 2019 the Raptors beat Golden State 4-2; Kawhi’s lone-star run delivered Toronto its first title.
Duncan joined in 1997 with David Robinson to form the Twin Towers; in 1999 they won the first title together, the old Admiral as sidekick, Duncan as the load-bearer.
In 2014-15, Andre Iguodala was inserted into the starting lineup to guard LeBron; Golden State beat Cleveland 4-2 for its first title in 40 years, and Iguodala surprisingly won Finals MVP.
In 1999-00 the Lakers beat Indiana 4-2. Shaquille O’Neal averaged 38 points and 16.7 boards to win his first title and Finals MVP.
Traded to Toronto in 2018-19, Kawhi Leonard beat the injury-hit Warriors 4-2 for the franchise’s first title and was named Finals MVP.