Watch: LeBron James perfectly adjusts D'Angelo Russell's defensive position in athletic wing's favor as Lakers block Spurs' ATO
LeBron James and the LA Lakers took care of business against the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night, marking their 11th win of the season. Anthony Davis and LeBron James again led the charge for the Lakers as Davis had 19 points and 14 rebounds, while James tallied a triple-double of 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists.
James’ leadership was apparent throughout the game as he orchestrated the Lakers on both ends of the floor, which was seen in one of the Spurs’ after-timeout (ATO) plays in the game.
In a clip circulating on social media, James called for D’Angelo Russell and Max Christie to switch, which resulted in Christie blocking a wide-open layup and him scoring a basket and one on the offensive end, courtesy of an assist from James.
LeBron James has been known for his basketball brilliance throughout his career. Being the oldest active player in the NBA right now, he is the undisputed leader for the Lakers. James calls out opposing teams’ plays, while also running LA’s offense as their de-facto point forward.
James, a four-time NBA champion and is regarded as one of the sport’s greatest of all time, is averaging 22.9 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 9.3 assists per game in his 22nd season in the league. He has also put up six triple-doubles this season, proving his longevity for the Lakers.
LeBron James says he may not be in the NBA for much longer
LeBron James has been in the NBA for over half of his life. Fans have seen him grow in front of their eyes, from being a high school basketball sensation in Akron to being an NBA champion with the Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Lakers.
However, his remaining time in the league may be short, despite still playing elite basketball at the age of 40. Earlier this month, James told reporters that he 'would not play until the wheels fell off' and his years in the league were nearing an end:
"I'm not going to play that much longer, to be completely honest…I don't know how many years that is. If it's one year or two years, whatever the case may be.
"I said the other night, I'm not playing until the wheels fall off. I'm not going to be that guy. I'm not going to be the guy who is disrespecting the game because I just wanted to be out on the floor," James said.
James has tied the record for most seasons played in the league with 22 alongside Vince Carter. If he plays next season, he will break that record. This season, he made history by playing alongside his son Bronny James, becoming the only father-son duo in the history of the NBA.