5 worst losses in LeBron James' career

Los Angeles Lakers v Philadelphia 76ers
LeBron James of the LA Lakers against the Philadelphia 76ers on Nov. 27, 2023.

#4 - Golden State Warriors 126-91 Cleveland Cavaliers; 16 January 2017

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The Warriors have kind of had their way with the Cavaliers at times. After a terrific come-from-behind victory over Golden State earlier in the season, it felt that maybe Cleveland just had some psychological advantage over the Warriors after last season's collapse.

Some also felt that adding Kevin Durant won't make a difference, he's always finished second fiddle to LeBron when they've faced off, etc. They put any such theories to bed with ease. The Warriors clamped down on defense, holding the Cavs to 35% shooting from the field. James and Irving scored 20 and 17 respectively but shot poorly and committed a combined 12 turnovers.

Golden State meanwhile got 26 points from Thompson and Green had a triple-double. They never trailed, en route to handing James his worst loss since he returned to Cleveland. There was no revenge this time around for LeBron as the Warriors promptly beat them up in the Finals to win in five games.

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