LeBron James hasn’t looked like himself in the 2023 Playoffs but has still been an integral reason behind the Lakers’ success so far.
He led the Lakers in scoring in their Game 4 win, but fans are still waiting to see if James has another gear to unlock that’s more reminiscent of his 2018 or 2020 self. The Athletic has reported that Darvin Ham has been implying James is conserving his energy for later in the playoffs.
“As Ham keeps implying, James still has more gas left in the tank that he’s been conserving for later in the playoffs,” said The Athletic’s Jovan Buha.
The Lakers have been succeeding with LeBron playing at below 100%, which is an incredible thought given the struggles of this team in the last two seasons. If James has another level he’s been waiting to unleash, he should do it in Game 5 to shut the doors on a 3-1 comeback by the Golden State Warriors.
Are The Lakers Championship Favorites?
The sample size with the new-look Lakers has become large enough for people to put them in the talks for winning the title. They are the best defense in the NBA by a mile, primarily because James has locked in on giving defensive effort once again. With him playing hard, Anthony Davis looking like the best defensive player in the league, and the role players hustling for every possession, the Lakers’ defense is scary.
Their offense hasn’t been as spectacular, but that is what we hope can be remedied if James has another level he can go to. Everyone’s waiting for a signature LeBron game, and getting that out in Game 5 will be ideal. That allows them to get additional rest before the Conference Finals, as Suns vs. Nuggets will go six games at the minimum.
The Lakers have the defensive weapons to match up against both Denver and Phoenix and can capitalize on the best East teams looking shaky. If James and the Lakers were to win a title, this season might be their final best chance before teams in the West reload this summer.
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