“He sees plays before they happen” – LeBron James DECODES Nikola Jokic’s game, hails Joker’s greatness
LeBron James reflects on Lakers' roller coaster season, praises Nikola Jokic as a game changing force
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Nikola Jokic guarding LeBron James (image via Getty Images)
After a roller coaster season for the Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James took the time to reflect on their journey. Starting the season with a disappointing 2-10 record, the team faced numerous challenges along the way. However, they managed to turn things around and reach the Western Conference Finals, but unfortunately they swept by the Denver Nuggets.
In a post-game press conference, LeBron James expressed his admiration for his opponent Nikola Jokic, the Nuggets’ star player. James acknowledged Jokic’s greatness and highlighted his unique style of play. He praised Jokic’s ability to score, rebound, shoot, and anticipate plays, recognizing him as one of the few players in the league who possess such all-around skills.
“I know how great Joker is, certain guys in this league that play the game a certain way, that I like to play the game as well and he’s one of them where you are always off balance when you go on a player like that because his ability to score rebound shoot, he sees plays before they happen, it’s not many guys in our league like that so you already knew you was going against a beast….a lot of people don’t understand it but I do he’s special”
“I don’t know. I love to play the game, I love to compete,” James said in his press conference. “I love to be out there for my guys, my teammates, whoever I have that particular year. I think it was special in the fact that having a first-year coach and a first-year coaching staff and be able to take them to the Western Conference Finals, I think that’s dope for Coach Ham and his coaching staff moving forward. It’s pretty amazing.”
“For me, it’s all about availability for me. Keeping my mind sharp, things of that nature. Being present on the floor, being present in the locker room, on bus rides, plane rides, things of that nature. It’s challenging, for sure. It was a very challenging season for me. For our ball club. Obviously, we know what went on earlier in the year, whatever the case may be. It was pretty cool. Pretty cool ride”
Despite the disappointing outcome of the series, LeBron James remained positive about the Lakers’ season. He acknowledged the significance of reaching the Western Conference Finals, especially considering they had a first-year coach and coaching staff. James credited Coach Ham and his staff for their achievements and saw their progress as a positive sign for the team’s future.
LeBron James emphasized the importance of availability and maintaining a sharp mindset throughout the season. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the Lakers and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete alongside his teammates.
Related: LeBron James retiring? BOMBSHELL news breaks following Lakers’ embarassing exit from playoffs
Uncertainty Looms for the Los Angeles Lakers in the Offseason
Looking ahead to the next season, the Los Angeles Lakers face a significant amount of uncertainty. The team made midseason roster changes, parting ways with Russell Westbrook and adding depth to their lineup. Despite the roster adjustments, their ultimate goal of winning a championship fell short, leaving LeBron James and the organization disappointed.
Heading into the 2023-24 season, the Lakers have limited players under contract. The core of LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Mo Bamba, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Max Christie remains intact. However, the team holds a team option worth $16 million for Malik Beasley.
One player who impressed during the season was Austin Reaves, whose breakout performances have made him a key player for retention. However, retaining Reaves may prove costly for the Lakers, as his value has significantly risen. Additionally, there have been hints from LeBron James about potential retirement, further adding to the uncertainty surrounding the team.
With multiple roster decisions to make, the Lakers’ front office faces a crucial offseason. They will need to figure out contract negotiations, potential retirements, and strategize on how to strengthen their roster to contend for a championship once again. The Lakers’ season was a mix of excitement and disappointment, and now all eyes are on the organization to see how they will move forward.
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Vivek Yadav
(624 Articles Published)