By: Eric Watson
On March 6th at the 5:38 mark of the second quarter LeBron James made history adding another milestone to an already legendary career by passing Michael Jordan on the all-time leading scorer list. The and-1 bucket came as the product of an off-ball back screen set by LeBron which confused the defenders leaving enough space for LeBron to cut to the rim for the amazing hoop off the Rajon Rondo assist. Despite the Lakers being down 55-39 at the point of the score in a game that had no playoff implications, the Lakers fans gave LeBron an extremely warm reception. This was capped by a time out in which LeBron was able to have a minute to soak up his incredible achievement.
Since that game, every media outlet has been putting their own spin on how the rest of LeBron‘s career will be defined. Some are saying that he will never make it to the finals again, others dethroning him as the best player in the NBA. There have even been fans, sports show host and commentator Jeff Van Gundy that have suggested the Lakers trade LeBron. Yeah, you read right people have been calling for a trade after one hurt rollercoaster ride of a year. Although I find an idea like that ridiculous I see why someone would make that argument. Lebron will be turning 35 this year, he has some major film projects taking up time and energy, the west is kicking his butt and he hasn’t been able to work with young players well. This all may be true but allow me to give you some facts that explain why betting against Lebron may not be a great idea.
Lebron’s career stats are 27.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, 7.2 Assist while shooting 50.4% from the field and averaging 38.6 minutes per game. These are the stats that have helped him win Rookie of the year, 4 season MVP, 3 championships, 3 finals MVPs and a whole host of other individual awards. Now Lebron’s stats this year are 27.1 points, 8.6 rebounds, 8.1 assists while shooting 51.3% from the field and averaging 35.4 minutes per game. As you can see LeBron has not taken a dip in stats but the only problem LeBron has is the same problem he has always had against the west he simply just needs more talent around him. We can look as recently as the Lakers last game where they played the Celtics and LeBron had a 30 point triple-double while Kyle Kuzma, Brandon Ingram, Lonzo ball and Lance Stephenson out. So instead of being a prisoner of the moment let’s sit back, relax and wait for Lebron James to make us witnesses again.
