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NBA: 5 Things To Watch Opening Night

By Colby Giacubeno

May 12, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) drives against Chicago Bulls guard Jimmy Butler (21) in the second quarter in game five of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
May 12, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) drives against Chicago Bulls guard Jimmy Butler (21) in the second quarter in game five of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 7, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) takes the court prior to the game against the Atlanta Hawks at the Cintas Center. Mandatory Credit: Frank Victores-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 7, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) takes the court prior to the game against the Atlanta Hawks at the Cintas Center. Mandatory Credit: Frank Victores-USA TODAY Sports /

1. A Wounded King?

On top of all of the amazing accomplishments that LeBron has conquered throughout his 12-year career, the most mind-blowing is how he has managed to take care of his body. For a player that has logged 911 games and 35,769 minutes, it’s amazing that his body hasn’t given out yet.

A couple weeks ago, there were fears that he wouldn’t be ready for the season opener due to a back injury that he has been battling for some time, even though he played through it during the Finals last season.

Today, Dave McMenamin of ESPN confirmed that the King will indeed be ready to suit up for Game 1 of 82 as he chases his third championship.

"“I feel good,” James said Monday. “I’m ready to go. I’ll be active tomorrow.”"

There is no question that LeBron is the Cavs’ number one priority in accordance to being sure he stays healthy. That may even mean limiting his minutes. Last season, LeBron played 36.1 minutes per game, which is the lowest of his career. Head coach David Blatt may have to start to manage his minutes to prepare for a playoff run when April comes around.

Kyrie Irving will still remain out for some time as he continues to rehab his fractured left kneecap. Kevin Love will be making his return since dislocating his shoulder last April in the opening round of the playoffs against Boston.

The Cavs are the easy favorite to come out of the East now that they have finally struck a deal with Tristan Thompson. They have depth at every position and chemistry carried over from last season’s Finals appearance. The big concern for them though is whether or not health will be a factor, as it proved to be their downfall from winning the championship against Golden State.

It will be something to watch to see If LeBron’s back affects his game play fresh out of the gate.

Next: 2. The Eye of a Rose