The fact that the Toronto Raptors have lost the first game of a playoff series 10 consecutive times, really didnt have anything to do with why the defending World Champion Cavs smacked them silly, 116-105 in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals.
The fact that they are coming off a tough six-game series against Milwaukee in which All-star Kyle Lowery only averaged 14.3 points really didn’t matter much either.
A line of 35 points and 10 rebounds by King James and a well-rested supporting cast was too much for a Toronto squad that is now 0-7 in Game 1 dating back to 2014.
A year ago, on their way to the title, the Cavaliers smashed the Raptors 115-84 in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals. Torontos Triple Threat of coach Dwane Casey, Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan still havent figured out the mystery of Bron boxing.
After a shaky end to the regular season, where the Cavs seemed to be out of sync and ripe for the picking, Cleveland hasnt lost a game in these playoffs and probably wont lose a game until the Eastern Conference Finals — if they face the Celtics.
James told us that his squad would basically flip the switch come postseason by focusing on the present. He repeated those sentiments after Monday night’s game.
I dont think about the past or the future, James told NBA.com. Im all about the present. Thats my whole mindset, How can we get this win? Today is Game 1. How can we get this win? How can we play? What can I do to help our team be successful?
Any rumor or misappropriated suggestion that he was tired or losing a step seems silly right now.
Thats how Im able to stay fresh, because I dont think about the past and the future is a mystery. So Ive got to live in the present.
Its looking like what everyone suggested at the beginning of the season; a Cleveland cakewalk to the NBA Finals.
