“Phenomenal” and “exceptional” LeBron James
LeBron James is it in decline? Many people ask this question, and at 41 years old, there is no disrespect behind this question. But the person concerned is determined to keep “butt-kicking” the passing of timeand he proved it tonight against the Grizzlies with 31 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists on 12 of 18 shooting. Most NBA players would dream of signing such a statistic, especially since winning is at the end. In addition, Lakers wing is the first player 41 and older to surpass the 30-point mark.
“He was phenomenal” summarized by JJ Reddick. “There were a few spots where they ran, and every time we needed a basket, he responded. Whether it was attacking the rim, getting into the paint, getting under the rim, he was exceptional tonight.”
“There is only one ball”
Partnered with Luka Doncic, LeBron James is using Austin Reaves’ absence to find his natural playmaker role, and JJ Redick is aware that it’s difficult for everyone to find their place.
“It depends a lot on the opposing defensive coverages. If a team plays a drop, we force them to play a pick-and-roll.” explains the Lakers coach. “Also, he continues to set screens and play behind really well. At the end of the game, on a pick-and-roll with Luke, he opened up the circle well and we got a great shot. Then he was served in the stop. Jackson (Hayes) made a really good read, he was patient, he watched Landale’s position, and it ended up being a dunk, and it ended up being a dunk that has another player, that’s his challenge. same thing, and you add Austin (Reeves) in equation There is only one bubble.
The quarterback and his receiver
One thing is certain, Luka Doncic and LeBron James can be fruitful together, and this is the first time since March that both of them finished the game with 30 or more points!
“We just played in rhythm. We tried to find ways to be productive” they analyze LeBron James about their joint effectiveness. “Luka did a tremendous job getting to the free throw line. He hit a couple of shots from the middle, a big three with a rebound. For my part, I tried to mix it up a little bit, be consistent and very efficient in my game. We played well with each other and led the pack.”
As the culmination of this deal, this “touchdown” by LeBron James on a long pass from Luka Doncic.
“He’s one of the best quarterbacks and I’m a pretty good receiver in that area.” he concludes. “My job is to prevent the defense from intercepting or disrupting the action. He put the ball in perfectly, at the right time, in the right place, which made my job a lot easier.”
2026-01-03 08:41:00







