LeBron James has accomplished many outstanding things during his NBA career, but one observer says he believes the superstar’s performance in Game 5 of the 2023-24 NBA season on Wednesday night might have been his best yet One of the achievements.
Chris Broussard of Fox Sports’ “First Things First” said James’ performance in helping the Lakers beat the Los Angeles Clippers 130-125 in overtime was better than his performance in helping the Cleveland Cavaliers go from 3-1 Coming back from behind is even more awesome. Beating the Golden State Warriors and winning the 2016 NBA Championship, among other memorable games.
“I saw him score 29 of the last 30 points in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals against Detroit,” Broussard said. “I was there for every game of the 3-1 win over the Golden State Warriors in the 2016 Finals.
“My point is, all of these and many other great games, I’ve never been more in awe of LeBron than what I saw last night. Listen to me. I’m not saying this was one of his best games. One. It’s not. I mean, obviously he’s excelled in more meaningful games.
“But when you look at him being 38 years old and in his 21st season and having other stars — Kawhi Leonard is playing great, Paul George is playing great, Russell Westbrook is Brooks is playing great, Anthony Davis is playing great – LeBron James is the best player on the floor.
“I’m in awe of it.”
It’s certainly impressive that James has performed at such a high level throughout his NBA career, especially considering the Lakers plan to manage their workload more than ever heading into this season.
But tight games and injuries to teammates have forced head coach Davon Hamm to rely on his superstars so far perhaps more than the Lakers have in recent seasons, including in their unexpected run to the 2023 Western Conference Finals period.
James, for his part, doesn’t appear to be entirely on board with the plan to limit his playing time, with video showing him confronting the coaching staff about his role in the season opener. James played more than 42 minutes on Wednesday and averaged more than 35 minutes in five games this season after Ham expressed an interest in keeping him within the 29-minute range per game.
He helped the Lakers overcome a 19-point deficit against the Clippers and then helped the Lakers overcome a late eight-point lead to win their third win of the season.
James will turn 39 in late December, and the Lakers will certainly want to keep him healthy and active with the hopes of making the playoffs again, this time ending with a championship.
However, the icon has shown that he is still one of the best players in the NBA, and it may be difficult for him to keep that ability on the bench as the season goes on, as it could ultimately lead to a better regular season record and better playoff standings. along.