In the closing moments of games, the Cavaliers have a secret weapon on the defensive end: LeBron James.
Known as a poor defender early in his career, James has become one of the Cavs' best on-the-ball defenders. James made life miserable for All-Stars Kobe Bryant and Brandon Roy in recent games against the Los Angeles Lakers and Portland.
"(His defense has) come a long way," Cavs coach Mike Brown said. "He's taken the challenge. Every year he's gotten better. His on-the-ball defense—he can be one of the best in the league.
"I don't think he's close to capping his abilities."
Brown said he never puts James on the best offensive player to start the game because he doesn't want him to pick up any cheap fouls.
