Cleveland Cavaliers: LeBron James’ legacy and context

2016 vs. Warriors

Both teams are finally healthy entering the series. It’s the anticipated sequel with so many questions. Will the 73-9 Warriors complete the perfect season? Can James finally bring a championship back to the city of Cleveland? Will the series be over fast?

The series itself was, despite the downfall of Andrew Bogut for the series; Love missing a game due to concussion; and Draymond Green getting suspended, one with so many storylines and “what if’s” for years to come.

One of the biggest “what if’s” in the series came 3-4 minutes after the game was tied at 89 all in Game 7. After a Cleveland timeout with less than a minute remaining, Irving channeled his Mamba.

On the right side of the court in an isolation situation against Stephen Curry, Irving sized him up with low dribbles staring into him. Following a series of dribbles, Irving stepped to the right for signature step-back and drained the game-winning three-pointer with 53.1 seconds left.

Why didn’t James take the shot would’ve been a question if Irving missed. James told first-time head coach Tyronn Lue to have Irving take the shot. James was going to live with the results of his scoring dynamo.

Outside of that, if Irving misses and Cleveland loses it becomes a long summer for James. Still, a year later, it’s mentioned how James’ Finals record would’ve been worse if Irving misses and he has Irving to thank for that.