Former Teammate Believes LeBron James Will Become ‘Andy’ From Toy Story In Playoffs

The Los Angeles Lakers will be depending on 41-year-old LeBron James when the Houston Rockets come to town.

Former Teammate Believes LeBron James Will Become ‘Andy’ From Toy Story In Playoffs

LeBron James will lead Lakers on his own (Image via FirstSportz)

In Short
  • LeBron James is expected to lead the Lakers into the playoffs despite missing key players.
  • Iman Shumpert believes LeBron will elevate his teammates' performance, likening him to Andy from Toy Story.
  • Rui Hachimura notes a different, more respectful version of LeBron this season, contributing to the team's fourth seed.

LeBron James is left all alone to lead his Los Angeles Lakers into the playoffs. With Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves set to continue to miss a chunk of time, franchise fans are not that hopeful.

Many have already predicted the men in purple and gold to exit in the first round, as they do not have the personnel to go toe-to-toe with a stacked Houston Rockets.

However, there is also the element of surprise here, as the King and his teammates have not played much. That gives them an advantage, as scouting reports will not be able to give the Rockets a clear picture.

He’s going to take over, he has no choice… He’s going to have to do the Andy from Toy Story. Put ‘ANDY’ under everybody’s foot, and play with your toys… People underestimate his willingness… to bring out the best in his teammates… I understand he’s 41… He’s healthy, and available, he’s dangerous.

Iman Shumpert said on the Pat McAfee Show

The former Cleveland Cavaliers guard believes that this is the moment when fans will see how his former teammate elevates those around him.

As someone who has benefited from that outlook, Iman Shumpert believes the King will turn into Andy from Toy Story, where he will be able to play with his teammates and their abilities.

Shumpert understands that age is not on LeBron James’ side. But for someone who is as conditioned as him at this stage of his career, the now ESPN analyst believes the Lakers’ superstar could surprise many.

Rui Hachimura explains how LeBron James has been ‘different’ this year

Iman Shumpert clearly expects his former teammate to elevate his fellow Los Angeles Lakers players, which should give LeBron James an advantage over the Houston Rockets.

For those who play at the Crypto.com Arena, this will be another instance where they see their veteran teammate coming up with something unique. After all, he has proven over the course of his season that he can adapt.

This is my 4th season with the Lakers… How LeBron’s been, especially this year, it’s really different for him. I think he respects the team, the coaches, the players. He understands the roles on this team… That’s why I think we got this 4th seed.

Rui Hachimura told reporters

The Japanese forward is witnessing a completely different version of LeBron James this season, compared to the leading superstar role he saw when he first arrived on the West Coast.

Rui Hachimura knows this will be a tricky playoff series, but his answer suggests that he and his teammates are about to expect another adjusted version of their team leader when the ball tips off on April 18th.

Kevin Durant talks about another LeBron James matchup

Rui Hachimura and his Los Angeles Lakers will be witnessing firsthand how LeBron James will lead them. On the other side of the court, a familiar rival will be waiting to play another playoff series against his Paris Olympics teammate.

Kevin Durant and LeBron James
Kevin Durant and LeBron James (Image via Lakeshow NBA/X)

It’s always great playing against great players. You feel their presence on the floor even if you’re not matched up with them… Of course, from the outside looking in, casual folks who are not in the life with us every day, yeah, the matchup is definitely fun. Two great players who have been in the league for a long time, but everybody who’s involved in this series knows it’s much deeper than that.

Kevin Durant said

The Slim Reaper knows all too well that whenever great players match up, the stage is different. At the same time, Kevin Durant also knows that the upcoming playoff series is something greater than it is about him, and someone who has battled against him for a long time.

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