39-year-old LeBron James quickly shuts down ‘load management’ talks as controversy stirs in NBA

NBA and Lakers legend LeBron James made a bold remark regarding the NBA load management after his side's win against the Suns.

39-year-old LeBron James quickly shuts down ‘load management’ talks as controversy stirs in NBA

LeBron James

The Los Angeles Lakers hosted the Phoenix Suns in their second matchup of the 2024-25 NBA season at the Crypto.com Arena. The Lakers came out victorious after trailing by a whopping 22 points in the game, with their star players Anthony Davis and LeBron James performing at their best.

After the game there were major questions regarding the ongoing controversy of the ‘NBA load management.’ This was because the Lakers play back-to-back games, facing off against the Sacramento Kings on Saturday night. King James was questioned regarding his availability due to ‘load management.’

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In response, LeBron James made a bold statement. It seems the NBA load management won’t be an issue for the 39-year-old.

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I plan on playing every game.

LeBron James said

It implies that James is planning on playing 82 games in the NBA. This showcases the NBA legend’s mentality to perform for his side even at the age of 39, especially, when a relatively younger star like Joel Embiid previously stated that ‘he cannot play 82 games’ in the NBA.

LeBron James shot 54.0% from the field and 41.0% from three-point range in 71 games last season, finishing with averages of 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, 8.3 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. This time around, ‘The King’ is planning to play all the games possible, barring any injuries. It remains to be seen how James performs for his side throughout the 2024-25 NBA season.

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LeBron James shared his views on ‘trusting the coaching staff’

The Los Angeles Lakers star players, LeBron James and Anthony Davis, have experienced a great start to their 2024-25 NBA season. However, most of the credits go to the ‘coaching staff and other teammates’, as per James. After the game, James spoke to the reporters regarding various topics in and around the Lakers.

LeBron James stated that there were important adjustments made during the second half regarding the transitions in the game. He also gave credit to his teammates and ‘trusted the coaching staff’ to do their job.

This mentality was evident as the Lakers did not give up even after going 22 points down. They fought back hard and saw out an important victory against a top side in the Western Conference.

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With 35 points on 11 of 18 shots (13 of 17 from the free throw line), eight rebounds, and two blocks, Davis led the Lakers on the night. Austin Reaves contributed three steals, eight assists, and 26 points.

Meanwhile, King James finished with eight rebounds and 21 points, capping off a top-notch display for his side. Up next for the Lakers are the Sacramento Kings at the Crypto.com Arena.