Cleveland Cavaliers: 5 goals for LeBron James in 2017-18
5. Adjust to playing alongside Isaiah Thomas
For three straight seasons, James had the luxury of playing alongside point guard Kyrie Irving, as the dynamic duo would go on to play in three straight NBA Finals and lead the Cavaliers to their first championship in 2016.
Now, the player who was once viewed as the heir to King James’ throne in Cleveland is no longer there to accompany him.
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The 25-year-old star was traded to the Boston Celtics last month in exchange for Ante Zizic, Jae Crowder, an unprotected 2018 first round pick via Brooklyn and Isaiah Thomas.
Thomas will look to step into the role in which Irving filled and help James reach his eighth consecutive NBA Finals once he’s cleared for basketball activities, as the 28-year-old guard suffered a torn labrum in his right hip late last year and is not expected to make his official Cavaliers debut until January.
Although Thomas is not expected to see the floor right away, it is vital for James to establish chemistry with his new point guard once he is ready to return to action.
The Cavaliers are seeking to compete for a championship in 2018, and there is a possibility that the 5’9″ guard could return beforehand. If so, then the two stars must find a way to be on the same page prior to getting prepared for the postseason, as their on-court rapport with one another will play a vital role in Cleveland’s success this season.