Cavaliers get 13th straight win with clutch performances for James, Korver; three takeaways

1. “Give him the ball and watch the show”

With 16.6 seconds to go in the game, the Cavs were just barely clinging to a two-point lead, 97-95.

From there, James was more than content to show off his otherworldly skills to close out win No. 13. With a hand in his face, James opted for a step-back three-pointer from the right wing that would put the Cavs up by five points with 15 seconds to go in the game.

Even though it was a difficult shot, James said there was no doubt it was going in.

“It felt good. I was able to get the laces where I wanted them. And I got enough space, I created enough space with the step-back away from Jakarr (Sampson) and was able to let it go. It felt good the whole time.”

James ended the night with a game-high 32 points on 12-of-18 shooting, 11 rebounds, nine assists, three steals and two blocks.

The play that James asked for in those waning moments is called Chicago, named after his game-winner against the Bulls during the 2015 Eastern Conference Playoffs. While Chicago comes with more than one option, James said tonight it was the only one he was thinking of.

“Tonight, with five seconds on the clock, it was up to me to try and make the play and I was able to do that.”

LeBron on the Cavs play “Chicago” pic.twitter.com/bfqmQTptcg

— Ashley Bastock (@AshleyBastock42) December 7, 2017

Korver perhaps summed up James’ influence at the end of games during this win streak best.

“Bron is just loving taking over at the end right now,” he said. “We’re glad to give him the ball and watch the show. He’s like, ‘Give me the ball. We’re about to win.'”

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