Tyronn Lue’s impossible task, made harder

There is no task more difficult to complete in the NBA than meeting inexplicably high expectations. The Cavaliers entered this season just one of several teams with high expectations; Cleveland’s, though, were based on the presence of a 33-year-old LeBron James and a run of past success in the Eastern Conference. Had the Cavaliers not won the East in each of the past three seasons, they wouldn’t have been the favorite to do so again, especially not after trading Kyrie Irving for an injured Isaiah Thomas and a draft pick. James’ presence and history baked in higher expectations.

So as the Cavaliers have failed to meet those high expectations, the burden has weighed on those responsible, including head coach Tyronn Lue. You add that incredible pressure and stress to an undiagnosed medical problem, and you have a real scary issue. Lue stepped away from the Cavaliers on Monday, citing ongoing health problems, including a lack of sleep.

Sleep is incredibly important for your health. If Lue isn’t getting any because of this medical issue, the NBA’s particularly tough schedule, and the Cavaliers’ struggles, that’s a recipe for a doom cycle. That’s the thing about sleep -- not getting enough can precipitate additional problems getting enough! It’s vicious.

Here’s to hoping Lue gets well, solves his medical issue, and finds a healthy balance.

The Nuggets lost a brutal double-overtime game in Miami, pushing them two games out in the West. The East, meanwhile, remains tighter than a hyperextended hamstring.

MIL 117, CLE 124
LAL 100, IND 110
CHA 94, PHI 108
MEM 115, BKN 118
DEN 141, MIA 149 (2OT)
CHI 92, NYK 110
GSW 75, SAS 89
DET 106, SAC 90

Sometimes, James reminds us how dominant he can be. Sometimes, there are apocryphal stories about him, like the time his teammates claim he gained seven pounds during a single playoff game. James really brings it all.

He also brings the wackadoo out in his guards: Jordan Clarkson claims he believes dinosaurs used to be pets for giant humans. No NBA Cares events for Clarkson at Cleveland-area schools, mmmkay?

James wasn’t the only jawdropper participating in Bucks-Cavs. This Giannis Antetokounmpo alley-oop finish is absurd. Absurd!

The story from which that tall tale about gaining seven pounds during a game comes from a really insightful Brian Windhorst piece about James’ training regimen.

Will the Warriors turn into the new Spurs?

We’ve had questions about the Thunder all season long. They are beginning to answer those questions for us.

Here’s why DeAndre Ayton is worth tanking for.

How Steven Adams wins so many jump balls.

Fascinating look into Gregg Popovich’s habit of calling incredibly early timeouts.

Jarrett Jack knows everyone.

The struggle of unplugging for NBA players. Athletes, they’re just like us!

And finally: what on this heavenly plane are you doing, Kevin Love? (Welcome back, buddy.)

Be excellent to each other.