LeBron James is it on the decline? Many people are asking this question, and at 41 years old, there is nothing disrespectful behind this question. But the person concerned is determined to continue to “kick the butt” of time, and he proved it again last night against the Grizzlies with 31 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists on 12 of 18 shots. Most NBA players would dream of signing such a stats sheet, especially since victory is at the end. Moreover, the Lakers winger is the first player aged 41 and over to exceed the 30 point mark.
“He was phenomenal” summarizes JJ Redick. “There were several points where they made runs, and every time we needed a basket, he answered. Whether it was attacking the rim, getting into the paint, getting under the rim, he was exceptional tonight. »
“There is only one ball”
Accomplice with Luka Doncic, LeBron James is taking advantage of the absence of Austin Reaves to find his natural role as “playmaker”, and JJ Redick is aware that it is difficult for everyone to find their place.
“It depends a lot on the opposing defensive coverages. If a team plays drop, we make them play pick-and-roll” explains the Lakers coach. “He also continues to set screens and play behind very well. At the end of the match, on a weak side pick-and-roll with Luka, he opened up well in the circle and we got an excellent shot. Then he was served at the station. Jaxson (Hayes) made a really good read, was patient, watched Landale’s position, and it ended with a dunk. That’s the challenge when you have a player who has played a certain way his whole career, another one the same, and you add Austin (Reaves) into the equation. There is only one balloon. »
A quarterback and his receiver
One thing is certain, Luka Doncic and LeBron James can be prolific together, and this is the first time since March that they have both finished a game with 30 or more points!
“We just played in rhythm. We tried to find ways to be productive” analyse LeBron James about their common effectiveness. “Luka did a huge job getting to the free throw line. He hit a few mid-range shots, a big step-back 3-pointer. For my part, I tried to mix everything up a bit, to be consistent and very efficient in my playing. We played well with each other and led the group. »
As the culmination of this agreement, this “touchdown” from LeBron James on a long pass from Luka Doncic. It was the first quarter, and despite two defenders on him, LeBron scored.
“He’s one of the best quarterbacks, and I’m a pretty good receiver in that area.” he concludes. “My job is to prevent the defense from intercepting or hindering the action. He put the ball perfectly, at the right time, in the right place, which made my job a lot easier. »
Worth a look
