MIAMI -- The world's most famous cramps have subsided and LeBron James expects to play in Game 5 as the Miami Heat try to close out the Oklahoma City Thunder to win the NBA title.
James
James, who couldn't finish the Heat's 104-98 win in Game 4 Tuesday night because of leg cramps, was able to take part in the team's practice Wednesday afternoon. He said he expects to be fine by Thursday when the Heat try to close out the series.
"I feel a lot better than I did last night, that's clear," said James, who had 26 points, nine rebounds and 12 assists in Game 4. "I'm still a little sore because of the muscles being at an intense level -- very tight. ... I should be fine."
James, who has had issues with cramps the last two years in the playoffs, said he received treatment after the game Tuesday and again Wednesday morning.
James also cramped during the Heat's final regular-season game against the Thunder, according to ESPN's Rachel Nichols. It's unclear if the style of play between the teams has any impact, but James has been eating and drinking extra fluids and food just to safeguard his body for Game 5.
AmericanAirlines Arena was abnormally warm Tuesday night and Wednesday and Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said the whole team will hydrate more leading into Game 5 because of it.
"We'll be more proactive now that we know what the environment is like," Spoelstra said. "We're from down here so hopefully it'll be to our advantage."