This week, LeBron James revealed his plans to suit up for his 21st season. While many Lakers fans were thrilled to hear the news, there is still a sense of doubt that James can carry a team to a title like he’s done before.
Speaking on First Take Thursday, ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins expressed some concern about the level of expectations we are putting on the King at almost 39 years old. Apparently, his days of leading teams are over, and it’s up to Anthony Davis to carry the mantle now.
“I don’t,” KP replied when asked if he thinks James can lead the team to a title in the 2023-24 season. “I don’t. And not because I don’t believe in LeBron James. Look, I think he’s the greatest player of all time. We can debate that another day. I’m standing on that, 10 toes down. But when it comes down to putting expectations on a guy that’s going to be 39 years old in December, I just can’t do that. Especially when he’s playing alongside a guy that is in his prime – a top five talent – in Anthony Davis. This shouldn’t be on LeBron James.”
.@KendrickPerkins doesn't believe LeBron can lead the Lakers to a title this season 😳 pic.twitter.com/Pv5Dp7LfWr
— First Take (@FirstTake) July 13, 2023
With averages of 28.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 6.8 assists last season, we know that LeBron can still play at a high level, and that’s unlikely to change in the short-term future. Sadly, we also saw LeBron struggle with injuries all year as a result of all the mileage on his body.
As time goes on, we will only see more decline and health problems for James, which is why the pressure ultimately falls on Anthony Davis to carry the Lakers to success.
What Is The Future For AD?
It remains to be seen what will happen when LeBron eventually retires, but one has to imagine that Rob Pelinka will shift his focus to building completely around Anthony Davis. At 30 years old, AD has enough experience to be the lead star now, and how he handles this next assignment could determine the fate of his future with the team.
“They want to see if (Davis) can stay healthy,” said an NBA executive. “They want to see if this group continues to be what it looked like it could be down the stretch last year. And most of all, they want to see what LeBron does next.”
The Lakers still have a lot to prove in terms of their standing out West, but it’s fair to say they’ve improved their roster overall, and if this group can stay healthy, the sky is the limit for what they can accomplish together.
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