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LeBron James, Cavs beat Celtics, advance to NBA Finals

 
LeBron James, right, blocks a dunk attempt by Celtics guard Terry Rozier .[Associated Press]
LeBron James, right, blocks a dunk attempt by Celtics guard Terry Rozier .[Associated Press]
Published May 28, 2018|Updated May 28, 2018

Times wires

BOSTON – LeBron James scored 35 points and played all 48 minutes Sunday night  to lead the Cavaliers to an 87-79 victory over the Celtics in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference final to advance to the NBA Finals.

James added 15 rebounds and nine assists, powering past constant double teams to score or set up his teammates for open shots as Cleveland sent Boston to its first loss in 11 home playoff games this season.

James will play in his eighth straight NBA Finals.

"We've been counted out for a long time this season," James said. "I'm trying to get the most out of this season. To able to lead these guys, it's a treat. To be successful, it's a team game. We're going to another Finals because my teammates played a hell of a game."

It was the first time in Celtics franchise history they lost a best-of-seven series after leading 2-0.

A few shooting statistics indicating Boston's struggles: Jaylen Brown, 5-for-18; Terry Rozier, 2-for-14; Marcus Smart, 1-for-10. They missed 23 3s.

West final Game 7

The Warriors visit the Rockets on Monday night for the decisive Game 7 of their Western Conference final after overcoming a 10-point halftime deficit and winning 115-86 at home on Saturday.

Golden State is seeking to advance to its fourth straight NBA Finals.

Klay Thompson scored 35, making nine 3-pointers, and played strong defense against James Harden that had him flexing his muscles Draymond Green-style in Game 6.

"The two-way ability of this guy hounding the MVP of the league, most likely, all game, and continuing to rain down 3-pointers, he's amazing," Warriors coach Steve Kerr said.

Rockets guard Chris Paul, who missed Game 6 with a right hamstring injury, will be a game-time decision.

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