LeBron James Stats Tonight: Lakers superstar completely outplayed by rival Kevin Durant in loss vs. Suns
LeBron James led the Lakers' charge during 109-105 loss against the Phoenix Suns on Monday. In his second game facing Kevin Durant’s Suns, LeBron had a slow start, allowing Anthony Davis to dominate the first quarter. The four-time NBA champion took only two shots in the opening period, hitting his second attempt from beyond the arc.
LeBron began the second quarter while Davis took a breather on the bench. However, the Suns quickly went on a run as LeBron-led group struggled offensively, committed multiple turnovers and lacked defensive intensity.LeBron took four shot attempts in the second quarter but missed all of them.
Overall, the four-time NBA MVP finished the first half with three points, three rebounds, four assists and one steal, shooting 1 of 6 from the field, including 1 of 3 from beyond the arc, in 16:36 minutes.
The 20-time NBA All-Star’s struggles continued in the second half as his shots wouldn’t fall, limiting his offensive impact. For a moment, LeBron’s record of most consecutive double-digit scoring games seemed in jeopardy before he finally hit a 3-pointer late in the fourth quarter to reach 10 points.
LeBron finished with 11 points on 3 of 14 shooting, including 2 of 5 from beyond the arc. He added five rebounds, eight assists and one steal while committing two turnovers.
Meanwhile, LeBron’s longtime rival Kevin Durant delivered a standout performance, leading the Suns to their second consecutive win. Durant posted 30 points, eight rebounds, four assists and four blocks, shooting 11 of 20 from the field and 2 of 6 from three-point range.
Kendrick Perkins claims age catching up with LeBron James
LeBron James struggled to find his rhythm throughout the Lakers' first loss of the season, with his lack of impact playing a significant role in the Purple and Gold's defeat to the Suns. Following LeBron’s performance, his former teammate Kendrick Perkins made an interesting claim.
Bron actually looks like he’s about to turn 40. Worse game that I’ve seen from him in a very long time," Perkins wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
In the Lakers' next game on Wednesday, LeBron will face off against his former team, the Cleveland Cavaliers.