Every time the Cleveland Cavaliers travel to Miami to take on LeBron James and the Heat, there is a scrutiny unlike anything you can find in the NBA.

Is Kyrie Irving Enough to Make Cleveland Forget LeBron?

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That’s why the Cavaliers' No. 1 overall pick and heir to the James throne in Cleveland Kyrie Irving needs a monster game.

All of the pressure that comes with being the next great one is already enough to shoulder, but traveling to the city where the former King now resides is like trying to impress the girl that left you for another dude.

Irving knows what’s at stake and is ready to take on the challenge.

Cavaliers head coach Byron Scott told the Cleveland Plain-Dealer about Irving’s ability to step right into the NBA and adjust accordingly:

"It shows how good Kyrie is. A lot of point guards in this league, because of the [hectic] schedule, are just now finding their rhythm. This kid came in here and, after struggling his first week [2-for-12 in his first game vs. Toronto, 8-for-19 in the Indiana contest], has just shown such a great feel and talent for the game.”

With Irving playing against the foe the media wants him to hate, all the young point guard wants to do is play smart and lead his ailing team to victory. With injuries to Daniel Gibson, Anthony Parker and Tristan Thompson, Irving will be asked to play even more minutes and shoulder an even larger offensive and defensive work load.

136223466_crop_340x234 Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

Sounds a lot like what we were saying about LeBron when he was in Cleveland.

Irving only played 25 minutes in the team’s first matchup against the Heat, but the injuries and increased aptitude at the NBA level will see him play at least 32 minutes. With the offense running through the rookie, I expect a full stat line tonight.

I am looking for 25 points, eight assists, six rebounds, two steals and a blocked shot on Mr. James. If Irving comes close to filling the box like this, there will be no question that the Age of Irving has begun.

 

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