LeBron James was drafted as a rookie in 2003 by the Cleveland Cavaliers. During his rookie season itself, James showed why he was destined for greatness. It’s been two decades since, and LeBron still continues to dominate at the age of 38. Over the past 20 years, he won four championships and as many MVPs, along with 19 All-Star appearances.
Not only that, LeBron James has remained a part of the NBA GOAT debate for the longest time, along with Michael Jordan. However, with the veteran turning 39 this year, he is nearing the end of his illustrious career. The forward has 1-2 years more of basketball left in him. Having said that, a former Clipper guard shared his worries about the status of the NBA once LeBron hangs up his boots.
Austin Rivers Urged NBA To Find LeBron James Successor!
LeBron James has been a transcendent figure in the NBA for the past two decades. His combination of exceptional talent, leadership, and marketability has made him the face of the league. Despite his remarkable longevity and consistent high-level performance, LeBron is now in his late 30s, and Father Time eventually catches up with even the greatest athletes. While the veteran committed to his 21st NBA season, there is no guarantee of his participation beyond that. Thus, Austin Rivers, former point guard of the Los Angeles Clippers, sounded off alarm to NBA officials. In a recent episode of “The Off Guard” podcast, Rivers says that LeBron James has been the face of the NBA for the past two decades.
And despite him being in his final stretch, the NBA still relies on him to sell the sport. There is no backup plan for the future face of the NBA once James finally decides to quit. Rivers also mentioned the possibility of Nuggets star Nikola Jokic grabbing the torch from LeBron. But he feels Jokic is not the kind of personality who can become the face of a worldwide league for a longer period of time. “Jokic doesn’t want it, and he doesn’t have the game for it in terms of style and flash,” added Austin Rivers. Having said that, the former guard’s argument isn’t completely false. However, players like Victor Wembanyama and Luka Doncic have been attaining the hype and have the potential to take over the reigns from LeBron in the future.
Nikola Jokic Surpasses LeBron To Script New Record!
Whether Nikola Jokic is good enough to replace LeBron James as the face of the NBA is for the fans to decide. But on the field, Jokic is making an effort to prove his worth. After defeating the LeBron-led Lakers during the conference finals last season, Nikola gunned down yet another record previously held by James.
During the Nuggets’ victory over the New Orleans Pelicans, Nikola Jokic scored 35 points, 14 rebounds, and 12 assists. He unlocked his 108th career triple-double to surpass LeBron James in all-time high tally. The Nuggets star is now fourth in the all-time high list of players to score the most triple-doubles in a regular NBA season.
