The Cleveland Cavaliers managed to live for at least another game in these playoffs after thwarting the Boston Celtics in a 109-99 victory at home Friday night. That would not have been possible without LeBron James scattering his greatness all game long, as the Cavs’ superstar exploded for 46 points on 17-for-33 shooting from the field, 11 rebounds, nine assists, three steals, and a block in 46 minutes of meaningful basketball.
Other than the fact that James had an otherworldly performance in Game 6, the four-time MVP also made history in three different statistical categories along the way.
First, James broke a tie with Utah Jazz legend Karl Malone for sixth all-time in postseason rebounds. James entered Friday’s game tied with 2,062 career boards in the playoffs. He finished the game with 2,073 playoff rebounds. He needs 408 more to tie Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for fifth on the list.
Also, James’ 46-point output in the contest is the highest he’s had in an elimination game thus far in his illustrious career. It tied James’ high in these playoffs. He put up 46 markers back in Game 2 of the first round against the Indiana Pacers.
In addition, it was the James’ 26th career 40-point outing in the playoffs and seventh in this postseason alone, tying Michael Jordan for second-most in 40-point performances in a single playoff run. Another such effort and James would tie Jerry West’s all-time record.
LeBron James and the Cavaliers will head to Boston for Game 7 of the series this Sunday.