Playoff Live Thread: Cavs vs Pacers, Game 6

Well, it hasn’t been the easiest five games of LeBron’s playoff career, but tonight he has a chance to close out the Pacers in 6 games and take some much needed R and R. I say “he” rather than “they” because to this point, the King has largely ruled entirely on his own, bending the Pacers to his will and their knees and receiving little to no help along the way. Thus far, James has averaged 34.8 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 8 assists for the first round. He’d have more assists but his teammates are missing a lot of shots. Despite LeBron’s ridiculous numbers, the Pacers have been playing some tough D, holding the Cavs to under 100 in three of the five games. That’s about as much as you can ask when going up against James.

Oddly enough, the Cavs have been much better on the defensive end than during the regular season despite the two (and possibly three) games played without the defensive force of George Hill. The point guard is still listed as questionable and could very well not play as the Cavs have another game to fall back on if necessary. In his absence, Jose Calderon has stepped into the starting role and done his best to plug the gap. If the Cavs can get ANY sort of contribution from Love on the offensive end, Indiana will have a difficult time stopping Cleveland. Unfortunately, I think this game is destined to be another close one. Hopefully, James and his Island of Misfit Toys will prevail and close out the series. Go Cavs!