LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers have had a rough start to their title defense as the Golden State Warriors have flown out of the gates to take the opening two games in convincing fashion. With the Cavs against the ropes and against all odds again, the series now heads to Cleveland as the Wine and Gold try and defend their home court.
After game-planning all week for one of the greatest offenses the league has ever seen, the Cavs haven’t been able to slow down the free-flowing Warriors who are getting anything they want offensively right now.
James has been outspoken during the first two defeats, adamant that the Cavs must push themselves in order to swing the tide in their favor. James himself has been outstanding so far, but he’s getting little help from the others around him.
Overall, the four-time MVP has been extraordinary this postseason, but he won’t be able to bring another title to Northeast Ohio alone. The 41% from three-point range has transformed into one of James’ deadliest weapons in the playoffs, and the improved shooting from beyond the arc can be attributed to former teammate turned Cavs shooting coach Damon Jones.
Jones was a part of James’ first Finals run in 2007, providing a consistent threat from three-point land during his playing days.
It looks as though Jones still holds his competitive edge as he and James had a spirited contest of HORSE at the Cavs’ practice ahead of Game 2, as Jones took the win with a walk off splash from deep.
You can bet James will get back at him in the not-so-distant future.