NBA Finals - Game 6

"When facing elimination, LeBron James averages 31.9 PPG, the highest in NBA playoff history among players with at least 5 such games in their careers. His teams are 7-7 in those games, but they’ve won 5 of the last 6." - ESPN

What more could LeBron do tonight that he hasn't already done? He's scored 40 in 3 out of the 5 games in this series. He's had a triple double in 2 of them. If only one of his teammates could step up and carry some of the load, LeBron and the Cavs would have a much better chance of winning. Tonight is different. LeBron and the Cavs are facing elimination. Tonight will be all about Lebron James, not about how much his teammates will help. Tonight will be all about attacking every opportunity he gets. I wouldn't be surprised if LeBron surpasses the 30 point mark at halftime if he's truly playing in desperation mode.
Just like in Game 6 at Boston in 2013, LeBron will be on a mission tonight. The one thing I truly believe he's lacked effort in this series and most of the post season is his INDIVIDUAL defense. Yes, I know he's basically the Cavs' only threat on offense, thus him conserving energy on the defensive side, but tonight he is going to have to play just as hard on defense as he has been on offense if the Cavs want to stay alive. If you don't agree that he hasn't given his full effort on defense, look at the play that Harrison Barnes dunked on him on the offensive rebound putback slam. Also, watch him guard Iguodala, yes he is suppose to give him room to shoot, but his close outs are lackadaisical and effortless. He needs to take command and guard Steph Curry when Steph is starting to heat up to prevent the Warriors from going on a big run or score 17 points in the 4th quarter.

When it is all over it will come down to a win or another NBA Finals loss.

My Final thought is that LeBron will come out hungry and have a big 1st half. Although he will be gunning, I think the Warriors will stay right with the Cavs. The difference tonight will be the help of the whole team in terms of defense and making shots when called to. The 4th quarter will be the final factor as to why the Cavs win or lose and I think LeBron will take over, willing his way to force Game 7 with an incredible offensive output, but even more importantly, taking responsibility on defense, shutting down Curry.



Here is an interesting article on Lebron's performance through the 5 games.

http://fivethirtyeight.com/datalab/lebron-james-may-go-down-as-the-greatest-loser-ever/

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