Two Questions Answered in One Game: The Cavaliers Edition

The Cleveland Cavaliers bounced back from their second two-game skid of the season today with a big win at the Q against the San Antonio Spurs, to improve to 37-1 at home. Although many would question the game's worth for the Eastern Confrence's top team this late into the season, a victory against the team that swept them in the Finals less than two years ago was extremely important to the Cavs, and this importance was personified by the play of their leader early in the game. Lebron called the two game skid "embarassing," and vowed to take it upon himself to lift his team. The win proved two things to me: The validation of the Caviliers as a legitimate championship contender, and possible favorite, along with the solidification of LeBron James as the league's MVP.

The Cavs were a loss away from panic mode, facing an excellent Spurs team on the heels of only their second back-to-back loses of the season. Many were wondering how the Cavs would respond, and their merit was sure to be questioned had the dropped three straight in the home stretch. Questions about their ability to handle loss and survive adversity were already beginning to buzz, and a loss to a contender at home would only add more gas to the fire. However, Lebron and co. ended all speculation by securing a resounding win at home, headlined by another stellar night from Lebron James.

Speaking of Lebron James he illustrated why he should be the league MVP in today's game. Feeling that his team was in need of a spark after their past two dismal performances Lebron came out of the gate like a man on a mission, scoring 18 first quarter point, and setting the tone for the game. After a monstorous first half, Lebron removed his superhero cape and changed back into ordinary clothes, becoming a facilitator, playing a role and helping his team cost to a double digit victory. This performance showed that Lebron has the ability to completely dominate a game when he feels it necessary, along with the ability to trust his teammates in other situations. This is a lesson Kobe Bryant finally embraced last year, when he was rewarded with his frist MVP trophy, and his first trip to the Finals in the post-Shaq era. If today's game was any indication, Lebron should be enjoying similiar rewards this season.