With LeBron James’ MVP-level performance against an elite team and elite two-way player in Minnesota Timberwolves guard-forward Jimmy Butler, he sent a powerful message to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Don’t take him for granted.
After dropping 37 points (on 72.7 percent shooting from the field), dishing out 15 assists and grabbing 10 rebounds, all team-highs, James notched his ninth triple-double of the season.
As he passed the beloved Zydrunas Ilgauskus for the most rebounds in Cavs history, James became just the third player in NBA history to lead their team in points, rebounds and assists, joining Michael Jordan (Chicago Bulls) and Kevin Garnett (Minnesota Timberwolves).