The Los Angeles Lakers are currently on an eight-game winning streak, but apparently, some people still think the team would be better off without 41-year-old LeBron James. Following Thursday night's blowout 134-126 win over the Miami Heat, James took some time to address critics who suggest his appearance could be holding the purple and gold back.
When LeBron James was asked about the narrative, he clearly stated that such takes are usually just for clicks. "It sells papers and clippings and podcasts a lot easier than if you say, 'LeBron, the team is better off without him.' Many people will try to like watching it. So, I understand. They are absolutely wrong.” Looking at the figures he just presented, it's hard to argue with him. Over the past 24 hours, James has led the Lakers to a 2-0 record while scoring a total of 49 points on an absurd 21-26 shooting from the field.
The game in Miami was especially special as James had officially tied Robert Parish for the NBA record for most games played in a regular season with 1,611. He celebrated this milestone by recording a triple-double, finishing the night with 19 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists. Head coach JJ Redick praised his star's longevity, noting that James refused to cheat the game even in his 23rd season.
While James provided a steady hand, Luka Doncic provided the fireworks. The Slovenian superstar exploded with a season-high 60 points against the Heat, setting a new record for points by an opponent in Miami. Doncic also broke the Lakers' single-season record for 3-pointers made during the win. With Austin Reaves scoring 18 points and holding the defense strong late, the Lakers proved they have a terrific balance of youth and veteran leadership.
The Lakers now sit at 45-25 and have moved up to third place in the Western Conference. If this is what a team looks like with a "declining" LeBron James, the rest of the league is in serious trouble.
