LeBron James reserves high praise for Zion Williamson: “He’s going to be great in this league for a long time”
LeBron James commended Zion Williamson during a post-game press conference. James had nothing but respect for Williamson as the New Orleans Pelicans nearly beat the LA Lakers last night. The game ended in a 120-117 win for the Lakers.
After their most recent matchup, James confirmed his perspective on Williamson. King James predicts that the young Pelicans star will flourish in the NBA for a long time.
"Zion is on the verge of being great, and he's going to be great in this league for a long time," James said. "Tonight he showed why you know he's gonna be who he's gonna be."
Zion Williamson played well despite having foul trouble throughout the entire game. Williamson put up 27 points, seven assists, and five rebounds. He also shot 52.4% from the field, knocking down 11 of his 21 shots.
Looking at their individual stats, Williamson performed better compared to LeBron James. However, the Pelicans star is yet to beat James in a game as he is now 0-4 against the King.
LeBron James struggled offensively all game long
The LA Lakers secured a victory over the New Orleans Pelicans last night. Surprisingly, LeBron James didn't carry the team's win. After watching the Lakers game, it was clear that James was having an off night. Even commentators Stu Lantz and Bill Macdonald noticed his struggles throughout the game.
LeBron James was able to finish the game with a double-double, however, it might not be the way he wanted it to be. He shot 0-of-7 from 3-point range and was shooting a total of 39.1% from the field. Despite his inefficient performance, James managed to secure 20 points, 10 rebounds, eight assists, and two blocks.
Luckily for King James, his teammates' shots were falling and could rely on everyone else to get the win. However, the Lakers could've won with a bigger lead had he performed better last night. Nevertheless, James might be feeling good about getting his second consecutive win of the season.
LA Lakers defeat New Orleans Pelicans in OT
The LA Lakers beat the New Orleans Pelicans 120-117 in overtime. Lakers fans nearly lost hope as they were down by three 111-108 in the fourth quarter. Thankfully, Matt Ryan came in to save the day with a 3-point buzzer beater to send the game into overtime. Without a doubt, that was the biggest shot of Ryan's career.
Lonnie Walker IV played a huge role for the Lakers last night in becoming their player of the game. Walker had 28 points and had an incredible shooting night. He made five-of-nine from long distance and shot 52.7% overall. His efficient performance was much needed for the purple and gold as their star player LeBron James struggled offensively.
Russell Westbrook flirted with a triple-double, scoring 13 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds. His role as the sixth man is proving to be effective for the Lakers. Westbrook is starting to fit in with the Lakers now that he's coming off the bench.
It appears that the LA Lakers are beginning to find their rhythm. Despite their lack of a true big man in their lineup, the Lakers are a great defensive team. Now with their rotation having Westbrook facilitating the second unit, things are starting to look brighter in LA. Can they get their third consecutive win?