LeBron James is still going strong in the 20th season of his NBA career. It does not look like there are any flaws in his playing style. King James always has been a complete package. He is excellent at passing and attacking as well. That is the reason why King James ranks 4th on the all-time assists list and the leader of the all-time scoring. He broke the ‘Captain’s all-time scoring record back in February. It was a very uncertain time for the Lakers to make the postseason. Hence, LeBron James mentioned, “This scoring record means a lot, but I cannot stand the fact of missing out on a back-to-back postseason. That’s just not in my DNA.”
It was clear that he really wanted to help his team qualify for the playoffs. However, things were looking bad and sometimes even worse as the King sustained a foot injury that made him miss a month of NBA matches. Later, however, he returned at the right time to confirm the Lakers’ chances of making the postseason. Sometimes people even forget that LeBron James is 38 at present. But he still has got the stamina and strength to lead NBA teams to playoffs.
LeBron James Impresses His Former Teammate With His Work Ethic
At his age, more or less, players retire after playing 18 or 19 seasons in NBA. But James is playing in his 20th season and shows no intention of slowing down. This attitude towards the game attracts praise from the fans, players, and experts of the game. Recently, two former NBA players, J.R Smith, and JJ Redick, had a chat on the podcast Old Man & the Three about the incredible story of James carrying the Lakers to the playoffs at 38. J.R Smith said that his Caveliars and Lakers teammate, LeBron James, has an absolutely ridiculous work ethic and drive.
According to Smith, Lebron always communicates with the players irrespective of the value of the teammate. The player can be the second man on the team or even a 15th man. However, James sees no difference. LeBron James always talks to his teammates and practices with them. He trains with the other players and takes shots with the guys. Currently, James is motivating his teammates to win the 18th title for the Lakers.
The King Is At His Best
Individually speaking, LeBron James is averaging 28.9 ppg, 8.3 rpg, and 6.8 assists every game. Furthermore, even in the play-in game against Minnesota Timberwolves, LeBron James was on song as he scored 30 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists in a matter of 45 minutes. Moreover, the Lakers beat the Timberwolves 108-102 in overtime. Next, the Lakers will face the Grizzlies in Memphis for a playoff showdown.
It is quite extraordinary to get to the playoffs after having a terrible start to the tournament. Since, the Lakers lost ten games out of their first twelve matches. The Lakers only have its four horsemen to thank for it. LeBron James, Anthony Davis, D’Angelo Russell, and Austin Reaves have just been spectacular together and will need to carry on the momentum during the playoffs as well.