It is no secret that the Cleveland Cavaliers are one of the top teams in the NBA playoffs. The team was able to sweep their first round opponents, giving them seven days to rest before their 2017 eastern conference semifinal debut. In game one of the semifinal series, the Cavs were able to put a whooping on the Toronto Raptors, defeating them with a score of 116-105.
The Cavaliers are scheduled to play the Toronto Raptors at home tomorrow for game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinal matchup. With LeBron coming off of a game where he shot 56.5 percent from the field, Toronto fans are worried that their favorite team will be the next victim of a four-game sweep.
Professional in Jurassic Park
There are reasons why NBA teams fear the play of LeBron James especially, in the playoffs. In the 2016-2017 regular NBA season, King James was able to average 26 points, eight rebounds and eight assist every time he performed in front of NBA fans and coaches.
This consistency of his play went unnoticed as James Harden, and Russell Westbrook stole front pages and headlines in the fight for the MVP trophy. The powerful small forward still played as if the cameras remained on him and as a result, he was able to lead his team to the second seed in the Eastern Conference standings.
LeBron finished the season shooting his third best percentage from the field of 54 percent.
His other two highest percentages came in the 2012-2013 and 2013-2014 seasons. It just so happens that LeBron was able to win a championship during the 2012-2013 season with the Miami Heat. When LeBron is on fire from start to finish, it is hard to get in his way of a championship.
Do the Raptors have hope?
After a game one loss, many believe the Raptors do not have enough fire power to stop LeBron and company of reaching the Eastern Conference finals.
The inconsistent play of Demar DeRozan has left fans and spectators skeptical of his ability to lead Toronto to a championship. It is apparent that the Raptors need every man on the roster to contribute if they would like the opportunity to survive the star power attack that Cleveland possess.
In game one LeBron was able to score 35 points and obtain ten rebounds.
The stellar point guard play of Kyrie Irving continued to complement James’ play as well. He was able to contribute 24 points as he picked up ten assists on the night. Kevin Love is also a threat on the block. In game one he recorded 18 points and nine rebounds. When LeBron James has a good night, and his teammates assist him, he cannot be beaten.
Who will be next?
If the Cavaliers can beat the Toronto Raptors, their next opponent will be either the Washington Wizards or the Boston Celtics. The guard combination of Beal and Wall will provide an interesting matchup as Kyrie Irving will be tested on his defense with either assignment.
Isaiah Thomas has played well against the Cavs in regular season play.
The series between the Celtics and Wizards ultimately decide how hard the route to the NBA finals will be for the team in Cleveland. One thing is for certain, LeBron will be ready no matter the circumstance.
