LeBron James will cast a shadow over the NBA community on the day he contemplates bidding farewell to the beautiful game of basketball. For over 20 years, LeBron James has been a constant topic of conversation in the NBA community, and it appears that he won’t cease to make headlines as long as he continues to play.
The king, who has received a lion’s share of praise unmatched by any player of this generation in the NBA, didn’t hesitate to share kind words about Luka Doncic after a matchup against the Dallas Mavericks, amid Kidd’s jealousy of LeBron’s dominant career.
LeBron James praises Luka Doncic
In Wednesday’s game against the Lakers, Luka Doncic showcased his magic on the court, leaving LeBron James in awe of his skills. Despite the Lakers orchestrating a 20-point comeback, the Mavs secured a 104-101 victory. Although Kyrie Irving made the game-winning shot, Luka’s standout performance included a remarkable nutmeg pass through LeBron’s legs.
Luka emerged as the game’s top scorer, concluding the night with 30 points, 13 rebounds, and eight assists. LeBron, leading the Lakers with 26 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists, was questioned about Luka’s future potential in the basketball realm. The king without any hesitation said, “Wherever he wants to. It’s up to him. It’s without question: It’s up to him.”
Luka has undeniably proven himself as a unique talent and one of the best in the league. In the current season, the 24-year-old Slovenian star is posting impressive numbers, averaging 30.5 points, ranking third in the league’s scoring charts behind Joel Embiid and Kevin Durant. Additionally, he maintains averages of 8.3 rebounds and 8.1 assists. If he continues to elevate his performance, there’s no doubt he will be in contention for the MVP at the end of the season.
Jason Kidd expresses jealousy over LeBron James’ late-career dominance
In his 21st NBA season, LeBron James continues to amaze the basketball world. Following his performance against the Dallas Mavericks, where he scored 26 points, grabbed nine rebounds, and dished out seven assists, his season averages stand at 25.7 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 6.7 assists.
Before the Mavericks secured a 104-101 victory over the Lakers, coach Jason Kidd expressed his admiration for LeBron’s consistent high-level play, especially as he approaches his 39th birthday on Dec. 30.
Kidd went so far as to admit feeling jealous of James. “Yeah, I’m jealous,” Kidd said before Wednesday’s game. “I’m for sure jealous of what he’s able to do at this point of his career. He looks like he’s 25 or 27, somewhere in between there.”
Having been part of the Lakers coaching staff during their 2020 NBA Finals run, Kidd offers a unique perspective on LeBron’s late-career success. Despite the emphasis on James’ physical conditioning, Kidd emphasizes the mental aspect, praising LeBron’s passion for the game and his competitive spirit.
“He’s a champion. His IQ is off the charts, he knows what people are doing before they do it,” he added “But I just think every summer, he’s always trying to add something to his game, and he’s played for 50 years now. It’s just amazing that he could do 50 different things each summer.”
James’ commitment to improving his game each summer continues to impress, according to Kidd. The next matchup between the Mavericks and the Lakers is scheduled for Dec. 12 at the American Airlines Center, following the NBA In-Season Tournament.
