The Washington Wizards Hope Remains Alive

James misses the eventual game winner.
Perhaps, Caron Butler got in his head.

LeBron James was just as confident and cocky as usual last Sunday afternoon. He gave a resounding "No" on Washington's chances coming back from the 3-1 series deficit. But after the Wizards' 88-87 victory in Game 5, there could be some doubt lingering in the back of LeBron's mind. Cleavland lead in the series has now narrowed to 3-2.

LeBron had a chance to end right there with 3.9 seconds left in the game. He had already hit 2 game winners against the Wizards in his postseason career. Right before the game deciding play, Caron Butler whispered a few words of wisdom in LeBron's ear .

"Let's make it interesting. Let's take it back to DC."

LeBron responded by laughing, probably thinking Washington season was at an end. However, James was not clutch in this instance. Lebron drove to basket and missed the game winner at the buzzard. James complained to that he was fouled at the end. The refs held their whistles since they are less likely to call a foul on a game deciding play. If anything, LeBron had traveled and initiated the contact on Songailia.

Before the game, 3-time All Star Gilbert Arenas decided to shut it down for the rest of the postseason. He stated he was only at 25% after coming off his 2 knee surgery in 7 months. Still, the Wizards responded with a solid effort. Caron Butler stepped it up to another level, reminding LeBron that he is two time all star himself. He hit what turned out to be the eventual game winner.

LeBron's nemesis, DeShawn Stevenson, dropped 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists. He played great defense especially on the Cav's final possession. Stevenson will have to continue to perform well if Washington even conceives the thought of taking it back to Cleavland for a game 7. Don't be surprised to see Soulja Boy to attend game 6 in Washington D.C.

So the big question is how will LeBron respond? Maybe LeBron's pride is preventing him from taking the Washington Wizards seriously. LeBron wmay need to carry the team on his back yet again for them to terminate Washington's postseason aspirations. Excluding Zdrunas Illgauskas, his teammates shot a combined 25% from the field in Game 5. If Cleavland loses yet again, LeBron and company could find itself in a do or die scenario in Game 7.