The Cleveland Cavaliers never did “flip the switch” defensively, as many expected them to in the playoffs. Until the Finals, the Cavs’ offense was good enough to get by despite their lackluster defensive effort. Against the Warriors, that’s not enough. Even if the Cavs were playing their best defense it probably wouldn’t be enough. The Cavs have looked lazy off the ball all series long. Defensive lethargy is expected from Kyrie Irving, from Kevin Love, from J.R. Smith. It’s not expected from LeBron James. It’s been there, though. All season long. He hasn’t stepped up his defense when he needs to, and the Cavs are down 2-0. James says that he isn’t tired, though:
LeBron James says guarding Kevin Durant doesn't take a toll
"Do I look tired? I'm averaging a triple-double in the Finals. I'm pretty good." pic.twitter.com/W6WKOU2Fes— Courtney Cronin (@CourtneyRCronin) June 7, 2017
Triple-double or no triple-double, the Cavs are down two games to none, and all signs point to the Warriors coasting to an easy championship.
After two games in the Finals, James is averaging 28.5 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists in 39.5 minutes per game on .553/.333/.706 shooting.
Kevin Durant, James’ Golden State counterpart, is averaging 35.5 points, 11 rebounds and 7.5 assists per game on .563/.500/.909 shooting.
For the Cavs to have a shot in hell at this series, James needs to dominate, and be – by far – the best player in the series. Two games in, there’s a strong argument that he’s been the second-best player at his position.
