LeBron James emulates Kobe Bryant and proves he’s NBA’s most CLUTCH player
LeBron James Ties Kobe Bryant's Record and Lakers Fight for Playoff Spot
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Kobe Bryant and LeBron James
On Tuesday night, during the Lakers‘ game against the Utah Jazz, LeBron James tied Kobe Bryant’s record for the most career go-ahead shots in the final 30 seconds of the fourth quarter and overtime in the past 25 seasons of NBA history. James made his 40th go-ahead basket with 27 seconds left in overtime, helping the Lakers win the game with a score of 133-135.
Despite missing a layup at the end of regulation, which could have cost the Lakers the game, James bounced back and finished the night with 37 points, five rebounds, and six assists, shooting 14-of-27 from the field with three 3-pointers. He revealed that he saw an open lane to the right side and left his shot a little short, but he was relieved to secure the win.
The Lakers’ probability of winning the championship appears unclear despite James’ outstanding performance. According to various NBA betting sites, the Lakers have been listed as having the seventh-lowest chances of winning the title. Surprisingly, some sportsbooks have even given better odds for teams such as the Denver Nuggets and Golden State Warriors.
However, James and the Lakers are not letting this affect their game as they continue to fight for a playoff spot in the Western Conference.
Lakers Remain One Game Ahead of Pelicans in Western Conference Standings
LeBron James and Anthony Davis have been playing through lingering right foot injuries, but they continue to show up for the Lakers when it matters most. Davis contributed 21 points, 14 rebounds, six assists, and two steals and blocks in the game against the Jazz, helping the Lakers secure their 41st win of the season.
In the Western Conference standings, the Lakers (41-38) have edged ahead of the New Orleans Pelicans (40-39) by one game in the eighth seed. The upcoming game on Wednesday night between the Lakers and Clippers has become a crucial match for both teams as they now share the same record.
James admitted that his foot injury could affect his availability for the game against the Clippers. He said that how he feels when he steps out of bed in the morning will dictate the rest of the day. However, the Lakers are not letting this uncertainty affect their game plan as they continue to focus on their defensive strategy.
“We set up a good play and I just left it a little short. This has been us lately. We’ve been one of the top teams defensively. We had to get stops, and we did that.”
LeBron James has made 52 appearances and started in 51 games so far this season. He has been averaging 28.9 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 6.8 assists in 35.7 minutes per game. He has a field goal percentage of 50% and a 3-point field goal percentage of 30.3%.
The Lakers still have three games left in the regular season. With James and Davis leading the way, the Lakers remain confident they can make a deep playoff run and compete for the championship.
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Vivek Yadav
(624 Articles Published)