This season has been a big challenge for LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers, especially when it comes to bagging a spot in the postseason. In light of their struggles, the King revealed the most important factor that will lead to their playoff success.
As seen in the Lakers’ recent game against the Memphis Grizzlies, James had to put up a performance peers half his age could have never achieved. In 34 minutes, the King posted a triple-double of 23 points, 14 rebounds, and 12 assists. Rui Hachimura had a monster game of 32 points and 10 assists while D’Angelo Russell continued to impress by adding 23 points on 55 percent shooting from the field.
The game before that, though, James was out of the lineup as the Lakers had a big double-overtime win against a Giannis Antetokounmpo-led Milwaukee Bucks team. In that contest, Anthony Davis went on for 52 minutes and led Los Angeles with 34 points and 23 rebounds.
Both wins had either James and Davis sit out due to injuries. Even if that’s the case, the latter has played the most number of games since the Brow’s 2017-18 run with the New Orleans Pelicans. Nevertheless, the absence of either superstar has affected Los Angeles’ momentum this season, which is seen in their ninth-seed standing in the Western Conference right now.
LeBron James Reveals the Most Important Factor For Los Angeles Lakers’ Playoff Chase
After the game, James spoke to reporters and revealed the most important factor for Los Angeles’ run toward a spot in the postseason. In a video shared by Spectrum SportsNet on X:
“Our health has always been the most important thing for our ballclub.” LeBron James on managing injuries in the final stretch on the season. pic.twitter.com/ZcST3ShmEX
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) March 28, 2024
At this point in time, James has played 63 games this season. During that stretch, he is averaging 35.2 minutes per game with 25.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.1 assists. As such, those numbers may not be sustainable the older he gets in the league.
If the Lakers want to win another ring, both James and Davis must stay healthy in the coming weeks. Otherwise, Los Angeles’ season will end on a disappointing note again.
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