1. 2012 Eastern Conference Finals Game 6
Going into Game 6, the Miami Heat Big Three were under the biggest microscope after losing three straight against the Boston Celtics and facing elimination after winning the first two games. A loss would have been a step in the wrong direction by not returning to the Finals. Instead, LeBron James put the team on his back with a 45-point 15 rebound masterpiece and helped the Heat avoid elimination with a 98-79 victory at TD Garden.
From the opening tip, it was clear that James was going to get to any spot he wanted with no one stopping him. James had his instances of doing what he does best and getting to the basket with ease, but the jump-shooting from James was some of the best shot-making of his career, with multiple mid-range jump shots being made off the catch, in the post, and off jab steps where James did not even dribble the ball.
The Heat rode the wave of momentum back to Miami, where they defeated the Celtics in Game 7 and ultimately won the Larry O'Brien trophy by defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder in five games.
A loss in that instance would have resulted in very tough conversations between Pat Riley and the rest of the Heat front office. But with one of the best performances by one of the best players to ever play the game, Miami went on to keep the Big Three together, make three more finals appearances and win back-to-back titles.