LeBron James can never win another title unless THIS superstar’s ‘early retirement’, claims NBA expert

Kendrick Perkins believes that LeBron James will not win another ring as long as the Joker and the Nuggets dominate the league.

LeBron James can never win another title unless THIS superstar’s ‘early retirement’, claims NBA expert

LeBron James and Kendrick Perkins

LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers have given away the series, as the squad is now trailing 0-3 versus the Nuggets. After two tough contests in Denver, there were hopes of the Lakers getting their first win at home; however, the reigning champs performed even better on the road. 

Not only that, but the Nuggets have also extended their win streak against the Lakers, going 11-0 since December 2022.

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LA is on the verge of yet another sweep. It seems as if the Lakers don’t stand a chance versus Denver as long as the team is backed by the captain of the ship, Nikola Jokic. And that is exactly what James’ former teammate, Kendrick Perkins had to say.

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Unless Jokic has an early retirement… Lebron will never win another title.
Wrote Perkins on X

The statement wasn’t as sweet, considering Perkins was James’ former teammate. Jokic has definitely dominated against the Lakers in their last 11 meetings. However, in Game 3, Aaron Gordon switched things up as he led the Nuggets with 29 points, 15 rebounds, and 3 assists while shooting over 66% from the field. 

James, on the other hand, had 26 points for the night with nine assists and six rebounds. The 39-year-old veteran had done great on his part, though a lot of factors have contributed to the Lakers’ current situation. 

LeBron James does not have an answer for the Joker

James admitted that Nikola Jokic was indeed an unstoppable force before the series even started. Going into the first round, the Nuggets were 8-0, which included last year’s Conference Finals sweep. 

So far into the series, the Joker has averaged 27.7 points, 15.7 rebounds, and 8.7 assists. The near triple-double stat from Jokic has dominated the Lakers, especially in the first two games.

The Lakers clearly don’t have an answer for Jokic, as James said. However, there are deeper aspects that have led the Lakers to this point. D’Angelo Russell, one of the primary shooters, hasn’t been consistent apart from Game 2. Subbing in two guards at the same time instead of letting the starting forwards control has resulted in lesser production. And the bench is not as productive as it should’ve been.

These factors have caused greater problems for the Lakers this postseason. As they look to avoid a sweep, their major concerns should be controlling the paint and revolving their offense around Anthony Davis and James’ pick-and-rolls.

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