NBA Rumors: LeBron James says 'It's the toughest season we’ve had since year 1'

Mar 18, 2014; Cleveland, OH, USA; Miami Heat forward LeBron James (6) reacts after a three-point basket by guard Ray Allen (not pictured) in the second quarter at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /

In their first season together back in the 2010-11 season, the Miami Heat “struggled” to a 58-24 record, second in the Eastern Conference before advancing to the NBA Finals and losing to the Dallas Mavericks in six games.A year later, the Heat went just 46-20 in the lockout shortened season, but beat the Oklahoma City Thunder in five games in the Finals. Last season, they went 66-16 and defeated the San Antonio Spurs in seven games to win their second consecutive championship.

This season, the Heat are 47-20 in a very weak Eastern Conference, three games behind the Indiana Pacers.

According to LeBron James, this is the toughest season the Heat have had.

“It’s the toughest season we’ve had since Year 1 just because of everything that comes with it,” said LeBron James, who fought through back spasms to put together 15 points, seven assists and six rebounds via Jason Lieser of The Palm Beach Post. “Just going out every night where you’re the target and everyone gets up for you and we have to find our own motivation every single night. It’s not always about our opponent. It’s about ourselves, too.

“It’s been a challenge this season, but we look forward to the next challenge, which is tomorrow. We’ll be ready when it all gets going.”

The Heat will be back in action Saturday night when they take on the New Orleans Pelicans.

NBA Rumors: LeBron James says ‘It’s the toughest season we’ve had since year 1’

By Andrew Melnick | Mar 22, 2014