INDIANAPOLIS — LeBron James' triple-double helped Cleveland erase the largest halftime deficit in NBA playoff history Thursday night as the Cavaliers defeated the Indiana Pacers 119-114 to take a 3-0 series lead in their first-round series.

James scored 41 points and added 13 rebounds, 12 assists and two blocks as the Cavaliers overcame a 25-point halftime margin in their Eastern Conference quarterfinal series. It was James’ 17th triple-double of his playoff career.

According to ESPN Stats & Information research, James scored or assisted on 73 points, a career playoff high.

“I didn't know it was the biggest comeback or things of that nature,” James said. “For myself, I just try to put myself in position to help my teammates win no matter who's on the floor with me. Try to empower them, try to make them better, try to make them believe we can be great every night.”

About the Author

Keep Reading

Tony Barnhart speaks into the microphone during a broadcast of his and Wes Durham's radio show in the 790/The Zone studios in Buckhead. Barnhart, a journalist for more than four decades, announced Thursday that he will retire after this upcoming football season. (AJC 2010)

Credit: Special

Featured

A new poll from The Atlanta Journal-Constitution explored what Georgians thought about the first 100 days in office of President Donald Trump’s second term. Photo illustration by Philip Robibero/AJC

Credit: Philip Robibero/AJC