Lebron James exercised demons of the 2011 NBA Finals that haunted him this past summer. The Miami Heat took on the Dallas Mavericks on Christmas Day in which was a highly anticipated NBA Finals Rematch. Prior to the game Dallas celebrated one final time before kicking off the 2012 NBA season. Instead of observing the festivities, Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra felt it was the Mavericks moment so he took his team back to the locker room. The teams took the court and at the start of the game Lebron took over as if that was his moment. What was supposed to be a competitive game turned into something ugly real fast, it became evident to me that that was then and this is now.
Lebron was impressive, focused, and determined to show the world that what happened in the NBA Finals is the past. His defense was excellent! He put on display the post moves that he worked on vigorously over summer with NBA legend Hakeem Olajuwon. When it was all said and done Lebron poured in 37 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists, while leading the Heat to a 105-94 victory. Lebron and the Heat controlled the game in every single facet. The score is not indicative how bad this so called game really was however. Make no mistake about it, this games was never close. What was evident is that the Mavericks are Champions of the past, a shell of themselves, and Lebron and the Heat are now!
Yes, this was just one game on a short 66 game season, but if Lebron remains vigilant as his effort on Christmas day, the Heat will dominate on their way to this years NBA Finals and James will wear that NBA crown that is fit for a King.