The Cleveland Cavaliers survived the first round with a 105-101 win over the Indiana Pacers in Game 7 thanks to a vintage elimination game performance from LeBron James.
The Cleveland Cavaliers jumped double-digit lead in the first half thanks to James. Cleveland took an 11 point lead into the locker room at halftime, but their third-quarter struggles continued and the lead was trimmed to just two by the start of the fourth quarter.
Gotta love @KyleKorver quoting Allen Iverson to describe @KingJames's total domination for the @cavs in Game 7! #WhateverItTakes pic.twitter.com/PTCWRebkKT
— Bally Sports Cincinnati (@BallySportsCIN) April 29, 2018
LeBron James was exceptional all game, but he was forced to leave the game with cramps. Fortunately for Cleveland, his teammates finally decided to show up. Kevin Love and George Hill were big down the stretch as they combined for 17 fourth-quarter points.
James was able to close the game out as the Cavs escaped the first round with a narrow victory.
LeBron was amazing again as he finished the day with his third 40-point game this series. He led the way with 45 points on 16 of 25 (64.0%) shooting with nine rebounds, seven assists, and four steals.
Here’s what we learned from the Game 7 win.