The Los Angeles Lakers might have lost Anthony Davis to a week-long injury but it had no impact as the Lakers faced off against the worst team in the NBA, the Washington Wizards.
After a 134-96 win, Lakers head coach JJ Redick specifically gave LeBron James his flowers for being the team’s tone-setter tonight against the weakest team in the NBA in a non-televised road game.
“He was awesome. He was aggressive, he talked. Just his willingness to trust his teammates and create for others and himself was amazing. Don’t overlook the fact that he’s 40 years old in year 22 with every accolade under the sun, and he comes out on a Thursday night that’s a non-nationally televised game against a team that’s really struggling and he’s the tone-setter. That competitive stamina is impressive.”
"Don't overlook the fact that he's 40 years old in year 22 with every accolade under the sun, and he comes out on a Thursday night that's a non-nationally televised game against a team that's really struggling & he's the tone-setter."
JJ Redick on LeBronpic.twitter.com/kkK0hrZzhv
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 31, 2025
James put up 24 points (9-19 FG) and 11 assists in under 27 minutes of action in this win. It was a comprehensive blowout by the third quarter, which allowed LeBron and all other rotational players to rest ahead of a tricky schedule without their best player. Anthony Davis’ absence puts pressure on LeBron to be the team’s bonafide leader, which he’ll likely do over the next week until Davis comes back.
LeBron is averaging 23.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 9.0 assists this season. Nobody needs to mention how historic these performances are, given only one other player has made it to Year 22 in their career in NBA history. James is tying the record for most consecutive seasons played this season and will shatter it next season.
He will be appearing in his 21st All-Star Game this season while also likely being in line to receive his 21st All-NBA selection as well. These accolades aren’t being handed out either, as James’ production is keeping him relevant even though the regression has become clearly visible over the last few seasons.
If he continues averaging over 20 points next season, he will set a historic benchmark that might not be attainable for any other player after him. We’ve seen longevity in the NBA but we haven’t seen this kind of longevity ever. LeBron’s career has redefined expectations from players at his level.
It’s fair to wonder how much longer James can continue playing at this level, but as long as he’s doing it, fans around the world will be happy.
Thank you for being a valued reader of Fadeaway World. If you liked this article, please consider following us on Google News. We really appreciate your support.
