LeBron James on 46-Point Outburst vs. Pacers: 'I Was in a Really Good Rhythm'

Scott Polacek @@ScottPolacekFeatured ColumnistApril 19, 2018

Cleveland Cavaliers' LeBron James drives against the Indiana Pacers in the first half of Game 2 of an NBA basketball first-round playoff series, Wednesday, April 18, 2018, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Tony Dejak)

Tony Dejak/Associated Press

LeBron James let the Indiana Pacers know he meant business right out of the gates Wednesday and finished with 46 points, 12 rebounds and five assists in the Cleveland Cavaliers' 100-97 victory.

The four-time MVP scored the first 13 points of the game, his team's first 16 points and 20 points in all in the first quarter, which helped Cleveland build an early 18-point advantage and play with a lead throughout the series-tying Game 2.

"It was just a feel," James said of his quick start, via NBA TV. "I felt like I was in a really good rhythm."

NBA TV @NBATV
"It was just a feel. I felt like I was in a really good rhythm." @KingJames on his 🔥 start in Game 2. #NBAPlayoffs https://t.co/WBei5wLrlf

Cleveland head coach Tyronn Lue was surely pleased James was so aggressive from the opening tip considering he challenged his superstar Monday to "set the tone early," per Dave McMenamin of ESPN.com.

If James does so again Friday in Indiana, the Cavaliers can take control of this series despite losing Game 1 on their home floor.

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