David Blatt has insisted that the Cleveland Cavaliers will not be relying on LeBron James to lead them in the NBA playoffs.
The four-time league MVP has averaged 25.3 points per game in 69 appearances this season, but was rested in the regular season finale earlier this week.
The coach told reporters: "I think that mentally and emotionally he'll lead the way. And certainly on the court his example is going to be felt and it's going to be followed. But this all can't be on LeBron.
"This is a team and a team effort and everyone here has to do his part. The good news is he's a guy that's done it, been there and led teams to the ultimate. He's certainly a guy that the other guys can look towards.
"There aren't many players in the playoffs right now that have his kind of experience and understanding of the moment, so I think we can depend on him to do the right thing."
The Cavaliers begin their seven-game first-round playoff series against the Boston Celtics on Sunday.
Sian Cowper
