LeBron James and JJ Redick see eye-to-eye on what the former brings to the team when he is fully healthy and on his game.
The Los Angeles Lakers just reminded fans who they are. In a massive game, the Lakers walked into the OKC Thunder‘s home and vanquished them 126-99.
In fact, the Lakers just held the Thunder to under 100 points, something only two teams have done. It was a brilliant defensive performance, especially from one Lakers star who ended the game +28.
Fans singled out Luka Doncic specifically for praise, as his 30-point performance was key to their win. JJ Redick was very impressed with Doncic embracing the challenge of playing against OKC so well.
But what about LeBron James? Well, JJ Redick believes he did something he also did against the Houston Rockets, contributing to their best wins this season. And James couldn’t help but agree.
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During his post-game press conference, JJ Redick noted that LeBron James’ defensive prowess was the key in the Lakers’ two biggest wins this season – the Thunder and the Rockets.
When James was asked about his coach’s comments, LeBron couldn’t help but agree, noting that his experience and basketball IQ allow him to guide the other players and be the voice on defense.
“Obviously my voice on defense… I’m able to see a lot of plays before they happen because of my knowledge of the game…”
“Being able to let guys know what’s going on behind them and know what’s coming before it happens so we can always keep our head on a swivl… I understand that’s my responsibility to anchor the defense, and I’m happy to do that.”
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LeBron James has been having a brilliant season. That is a fact. But it is also true that his injury derailed a lot of his momentum, along with the Lakers as well.
LeBron looked a little rusty when he returned to the court. But after his last two games against the Pelicans, and now the Thunder, it’s safe to say he’s back to his level.
Perhaps Kendrick Perkins was right when he said LeBron was playing hurt when he returned. But he seems to have found his groove once again.
Over the last two games, James has averaged 23.0 points and 7.5 assists. With the playoffs just a few weeks away, James might be heating up at the right time.
