LeBron James and Anthony Davis obviously had a lot of time this season to increase their chemistry and become comfortable with one another. Their relationship has evolved. Two of the biggest NBA stars seem to have mutual respect for one another. When Davis was asked about what LeBron tells him, Davis claimed LeBron was confident in his ability to lead the team. Does this mean LeBron is ready to take a step back?
The King is ready to pass the torch.
(via @mcten, @malika_andrews) pic.twitter.com/1IXP0you8B
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) October 25, 2020
This Year’s Dominance
While LeBron seems confident that he could step back for the Lakers, he still was putting up some impressive numbers this season. At 35 years old, in his 17th season in the league, LeBron averaged 25 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game. The 25 points per game is close to his career average of 27 points per game and this season he totaled his highest assists per game. LeBron also led his team to a championship through a mid-season pause and NBA restart. Despite the unprecedented experience, LeBron still won the NBA Finals MVP Award. This stat line and list of accomplishments for just this season does not indicate that LeBron is slowing down anytime soon.
Is Anthony Davis Ready to Lead the Lakers?
Anthony Davis just finished his first season with the Lakers and it ended in a championship. Davis went through the playoff run like a veteran. Davis did not seem nervous but instead rose to the challenge of championship competition. In the playoff run, Davis helped LeBron lead the team and averaged 25 points and 10.7 rebounds in the Finals. This season showed that Davis is ready to step up and take the challenge.
What does this mean for the Lakers?
While this may seem like LeBron is slowing down, it seems like he has more basketball to play. As mentioned earlier, LeBron’s stats for this season don’t indicate any drop off in his career. While the Lakers may not lose LeBron yet, they may see a less involved LeBron. LeBron won his championship for the city, won another Finals MVP and may be ready to settle down. This could mean that the team may look to other leaders. LeBron is confident in Anthony Davis and thinks he is ready to lead.
The Lakers have the talent to repeat a championship and they have the leadership to back it. The question is not whether there will be a leader of the Lakers. It is more a question of who will take the role of leader.
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