Lance Stephenson has a plan to stop LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers. It’s unclear whether that still involves blowing into his ear.
James has a long history of incredible playoff performances, and with Cleveland back on track it’s possible more of them come against the Indiana Pacers.
Now trailing the Cavs 2-0 in their first round series, Stephenson was asked how he plans to stop James from breaking out again. He was Born Ready with a plan.
Despite his circuitous NBA path, Stephenson was one of only a handful of players who ever had a chance at slowing down James. Aside from being physical, what’s Stephenson’s strategy?
“You just gotta tame him,” Stephenson said. “He’s playing so well right now. His jump shot has really improved. Just gotta get into him, make him pass the ball. Make his teammates make decisions.”
Stephenson returned to Indiana and got a huge ovation from the home crowd. He proceeded to give them the full Born Ready experience, but the honeymoon period is over. He’s been criticized as of late for his demeanor, which hasn’t been positive in the two losses to Cleveland this series. Even Paul George said he had to change the way his frustration is perceived in his body language.
To his credit, he’s saying the right things here. There just isn’t much hope the Pacers can slow James down in time.
