Video: Chet Holmgren attempts to guard LeBron James in transition, injures his ankle after taking a hit
No. 2 draft pick Chet Holmgren went head-to-head with four-time NBA champion LeBron James in Saturday's star-studded Pro-Am tournament game in Seattle hosted by Jamal Crawford.
It didn't take long for Holmgren to get the opportunity to guard James. The two players found themselves in a 1v1 situation inside the first minute of the game.
It wasn't an easy situation either, as he had to defend in transition, where the Lakers star is at his lethal best. Holmgren managed to avoid getting scored against, but he rolled his ankle after taking a hit from LeBron. The OKC Thunder big hobbled off the court after the play. Here's the clip:
Chet’s ankle gone after defending a Bron layup 1 minute into the game… https://t.co/8Lk5St12rD
Chet Holmgren didn't return to the floor. Meanwhile, LeBron James and the rest of the NBA stars in action had to return home early after the game was called off midway through the second quarter due to condensation on the court.
Milwaukee Bucks rookie MarJon Beauchamp tried to dunk the ball on the final possession but lost his footing due to the slippery floor. Fortunately, he avoided an injury. Jamal Crawford proceeded to call the game off due to unsafe playing conditions, making sure none of the players suffered any injuries.
Few things..
1) I’m sorry for those who couldn’t get in. Truly…
2) I had to make the decision to stop the game to protect the players. Tough, but right decision.
3) Thank you to all of the stars showing our city love!!!!
LeBron James spotted working out after the game was called off
LeBron James seems to be preparing for the new campaign with great intensity. The LA Lakers failed to make the playoffs last season despite King James' best efforts and will be hoping for a better season in 2022-23. He averaged 30.3 points per game in the 2021-22 campaign and will be eager to produce the goods in year 20 as well.
Though James didn't get to play an entire game in the Seattle Pro-Am tournament, he didn't go home without sweating it out. The former Cavaliers superstar worked out after the game got called off. Here's a clip of him going through his routines:
LeBron James getting in some extra work after tonight's @thecrawsover game was canceled.
The grind never stops 💯
(via @CuffsTheLegend)
https://t.co/ujzsqUdJnN
The LA Lakers look weak on paper compared to the rest of the Western Conference heavyweights. They are yet to make a significant trade that could improve their odds of contending for the championship next year. They have shown an interest in bringing Kyrie Irving to the team but talks have stalled.
The Lakers will continue to rely on LeBron to deliver the results until then. Hence, him being in top shape will come as a positive piece of news for the team's fans in the offseason.