Cavs Top Warriors In Game 3, Take 2-1 NBA Finals Series Lead

LeBron James dropped 40 points, leading the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 96-91 game 3 victory over the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals.

"I don't know if I'll continue to put up these type (of) numbers," said James to ESPN reporter Doris Burke moments after the game. "But I'll continue to lead these guys every single night."

James, who added 12 rebounds, 8 assists, 4 steals and 2 blocks, has scored more points in the first 3 games of an NBA Finals than any player in league history (123).

If James is Batman, his teammate, guard Matthew Dellavedova, has improbably become Robin in the NBA Finals.

Dellavedova continues to shine brighter as the series continues. The 24 year old Aussie made hustle play after hustle play, finishing with 20 points, 15 more than his season average.

"He's made of steel or something. If there's a ball on the ground he's going to be the first guy on the ground. He showed it multiple times tonight," said James of Dellavedova. "He's huge for our team.

"He give us that grit...that grit that we need. He gives us everything until that tank is empty...He's huge for us."

James and Dellavedova were responsible by score or assist for 78 of the Cavs 96 points.

James' leadership has been on full display, leading an undermanned Cavs team to a surprising 2-1 series lead against the NBA's best regular season team in the Warriors. Cleveland's defense has been most impressive, as NBA MVP Steph Curry has been held in check the last two games.

"It's just a group that's willing to play as hard as they can to win," said Cleveland head coach David Blatt. "When you do that, you can live with any consequence."

Curry found his stroke late, helping the Warriors go on a 25-9 run in the 4th quarter to cut the Cavs lead to 3, but the first 3 quarters, Curry struggled with his shot as Dellavedova and company covered him like a blanket.

Golden State's late push gave James' an opportunity to be professor to his teammates.

"We've got some learning to do. I've always said about this team, 'the best teacher in life is experience'," said James. "That last 1:30 (of the 4th quarter)...we've got a lot of learn from."

James stole a Warriors in bounds pass in the closing moments of regulation, putting a stamp on Cleveland's game 3 victory.

Game 4 is set for Thursday night at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland. Tip-off is set for 8:10.