The Five-Man Game: A Look at Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers in Round Two

Ever since LeBron James was drafted in 2003, just about everyone knew the Cavs were going to be a one-man show. Cleveland was blessed to have such a talent grace their hardwood.

Years later, we become witnesses of LeBron James continuously taking the Cavs to the playoffs on his back.

But is it just LeBron’s fault for Cleveland's success? No.

As I'm watching Cleveland and Boston battle it out in the second round of the playoffs this year, I really see the importance of Cleveland's role players and other starters.

In a time where James is struggling, the Cavs are playing neck to neck with the leagues top defense! Why is this?

Just take a look at Zydrunas Ilgauskas. The man has been an incredible help to the team: averaging 16 ppg, over three orpg, and not to mention his shot blocking.

Also take a look at Joe Smith and Anderson Varejao. Both are big men willing to step in front of penetrators to take a charge.

Look at Wally Szczerbiak and his excellent game five performance. Even look at Delonte West and his ability to score and pass the ball.

Let’s face it. The Cavs has shown to be much more than a one-man show in this series against Boston, and they have shown that in the past.

Boston's bench is not as deep as Cleveland's, and that may be contributing to the horrible road showings in the playoffs.

Tracy McGrady said, "It's my fault we can't rebound, It's my fault we weren't playing defense, It's my fault we can't hit open shots, It's my fault the guy in the third row got a Heineken instead of a Bud Light."

Tracy had a point.  Basketball is not a one man sport. People are right when they say Cleveland is nothing with out LeBron. But I would also be right in saying Cleveland would be nothing with out Z, Wally, Delonte, etc.

It is not up to LeBron to win this series.  It is up to the Cavs to win this series.

And possibly go all the way

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