Cavaliers Beat Warriors Behind James, Dellavedova

LeBron James put on another monster performance in Game 3 of the NBA Finals on June 9th, scoring 40 points to go along with 12 rebounds and eight assists as the Cleveland Cavaliers beat the Golden State Warriors 96-91 in Cleveland. The victory gave Cleveland a 2-1 lead in the series.

With Kyrie Irving out of the playoffs following knee surgery, Matthew Dellavedova is emerging as a potent force in the Cavaliers’ back court. The Australian scored 20 points and had five rebounds and four assists. He also impressed by diving after loose basket balls and generally throwing his whole body into his very physical game. He was so physical that he was hospitalized after the game for dehydration but was expected to be ready for Game 4 in Cleveland on June 11th.

But it is James who is the unquestioned leader on the team, leading by example, playing with extreme intensity, and doing whatever is necessary to win. He’s been to the finals six times and won it twice with Miami and returned home to Cleveland on a mission to win again. And woe be to any Cavalier who isn’t making a 100% effort or screwing up; one glare from LeBron would put the fear of God in anyone.

Stephen Curry was missing in action in the first half, and couldn’t make a basket to save his life, this after a mediocre Game 2 performance. However , Curry found his shooting hand in the second half and demonstrated why he was the NBA MVP this year. In doing so, the Warriors nearly overcame a 20 point third quarter deficit. If he has his shooting touch back, Game 4 will be really interesting.