LeBron James has a reputation as a player who knows how to make his teammates better. However, evolving alongside him is not an easy task, and not everyone has the shoulders to take on this role. Kevin Love got Express on the many difficulties he experienced with the King.
LeBron James is an exceptional player, who knows how to make others better. At his side, simple role players can sublimate themselves and reach a level that they would never have reached without the King. Just watch Kentavious Caldwell-Pope’s Finals in the bubble, and the huge contract extension that followed to realize it.
LeBron really knows how to make room for others to shine. In Cleveland, he left Kyrie Irving shine, especially in Game 7 of the 2016 Finals. In Los Angeles, Anthony Davis was able to prove to the whole world that he was indeed one of the best players on the planet. And in Miami, Dwyane Wade was able to do Dwyane Wade.
In fact, there is only one role that seems really difficult in the King’s teams: the 3rd option. Often, this status requires a great number of sacrifices. Kevin Love, 3rd option in Cleveland, spoke to journalist Graham Bensinger. If he recognizes the talent of his former teammate, he has also encountered many difficulties at his side.
LeBron James is a planet in its own right. He takes all his teammates and puts them in his orbit. He expects a lot from his teammates, but that’s what all the best players on the planet do. He knew I was going to sacrifice myself, it was my only way to be part of such a team and win a title.
On the screen everything looked fluid, but it was very difficult for me, suddenly I had to refuse to take open shots. I censored myself, I was tough, and I stopped myself from playing my game. All I wanted was a little recognition, because I sacrificed a lot.
Kevin Love is now free from the influence of LeBron James … But it’s a safe bet that he would like to find a smaller role to play the title. Sometimes sacrificing yourself is the only solution to evolve at the highest level. If he agrees to do it again, the Cavaliers’ interior could find a point of hush.
LeBron James is as demanding with others as he is with himself. While this is difficult for some to accept, it is a requirement for playing the title.
