LeBron James fought against everyone who had to try and help La Lakers – but that wasn’t enough to prevent another loss.
At 40, LeBron James is defiant of all expectations of being an impact maker for the NBA.
In Game 4 of the La Lakers Series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, LeBron James played an astounding 46 minutes, including the entire second half.
Offensively, this hit LeBron, who scored 27 points but failed to score one point in the fourth quarter. The Lakers fell to a loss of 116-113.
There was one aspect of LeBron James’ big performance and kept momentum through the competition.
Evergreen Superstar’s defense was affected by stretches, including a dramatic late game block in Donte Divincenzo.
It was a game-changing play where the Lakers tried to retake the lead before they finally gave up.
Speaking on his podcast, Bill Simmons praised his podcast, claiming that LeBron has played this way, the first time he’s even reminiscent of peak times since the Lakers’ final title season.
He states:
“He’s just stripping the guy, he’s protecting the rim. He’s moving his feet to the defense and blocking passes. He’s not defending like this since 2020. Personally. Am I wrong?”
The arrival of Luka Doncic changed the role of Lebron James. There, they take on more defensive tasks to make up for the Lakers’ lack of size.
The LA Lakers are still in the series, but are now back and fighting from 3-1.
They have two of the last three games at home, with road games in Minnesota sandwiched between.
Simmons added:
LeBron James and Luka Donsic have made it clear they have not given up, but they will absolutely need to win Game 5 in LA to eliminate the face.