"I said he's never had like what Kobe had that year when he got rid of Shaq" - Former Lakers star believes LeBron James is committed to winning championships and not hunting statistics
LeBron James is coming off a statistically strong 2021-22 season with the LA Lakers, despite missing the playoffs for the fourth time in his career.
However, former three-time All-Star Gilbert Arenas sees things slightly differently regarding how LeBron James operates. He said:
“LeBron is probably the only player, the only superstar, that never had that year. He never had that year where he says, ‘Forget everybody, I’m trying to get my stats.’ Because, I said, if he ever did that, who’s stopping him? Maybe that man would average 40 something.
“I said, he’s never had like what Kobe had that year when he got rid of Shaq.”
James has received a share of criticism for chasing statistics. The LA Lakers struggled to find wins, despite James exploding regularly.
James wears multiple hats on the basketball floor, given his frame and basketball IQ. After returning to the Cleveland Cavaliers, having won two championships with the Miami Heat.
His vision benefited the players around him. He was required to score and create. However, James has had a say in the players he wants around him.
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@KingJames and the defending champion @Lakers take on the Clippers opening night - Tuesday, December 22nd on TNT https://t.co/uD3FKh8z9F
Gilbert Arenas furthered his point by saying:
“When LeBron stepped in, it was all about trying to win championships. So, he’s never actually had a selfish year, where he says, ‘I don’t need anybody. I want to show the world what I can do.’”
Gilbert Arenas reminds fans to cherish the years LeBron James has left
LeBron James will enter his 20th NBA season in October, suiting up for the LA Lakers. After a failed experiment in the previous season, James is determined to make things work. Anthony Davis is supposedly making good use of the summer. He is working on getting healthy and dominating on the court again.
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Amid the chaos and expectations surrounding the Lakers organization, many don't realize how impressive James is for a 37-year-old. This season will be a crucial year for LeBron James. Gilbert Arenas emphasized the importance of it, saying:
“I want you to really think about what I’m saying and understand it. You better, when you’re watching this LeBron that’s about to come out now. This will be the last time and the first time you ever see him in this element.”
The LA Lakers seem to have considered the mistakes from last season and have responded by adding a group of young players. These additions should give James enough support for the regular season before he switches gears for the postseason.