LeBron James has successfully solidified his name among the greatest players in the league’s history, achieving this feat through his unceasing on-court dominance. Last month, LeBron inspired the Lakers’ clinching of the novel NBA Cup trophy, which has seemingly affected their regular season outputs.
Following LeBron James’ explanation of the Lakers’ subpar regular season results after the victory against the Indiana Pacers, NBA fans have angrily reacted, taking turns to criticize the King and the Lakers.
LeBron James on the mindset heading into this roadtrip
The Lakers, in a unique pre-game ceremony, hanged the NBA in-season’s championship banner in the arena, before facing the New York Knicks. Despite the banner celebration, the Lakers still fell to the Knicks by a score of 109-114. Following the loss, which added to the team’s woes, LeBron, has stated that the road trips are to blame for the current form.
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LeBron, while speaking with reporters, mentioned that the team has been feeling the negative effects of the frequent road trips, having played only one home game since December 5. Despite the challenges of constant travel, he commended the team for competing and acknowledged the recent tough stretch.
Furthermore, it seems that LeBron is prioritizing rest and staying healthy. He also emphasized the team’s spirit in remaining focused to finish the month on a positive note. LeBron said, “Get some rest, get healthy, and try to finish out December the right way… we just got to mentally stay locked in.”
LeBron James on the mindset heading into this roadtrip: "Get some rest, get healthy and try to finish out December the right way… we just got to mentally stay locked in." pic.twitter.com/c1KXU1BuyA
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) December 19, 2023
LeBron’s statements suggests that the Lakers’ extended road trips have affected their focus, attention, and rest, hindering their ability to handle the challenges of the game effectively. However, concerns arise regarding whether blaming the travel is considered professional. Many fans and analysts view these statements as mere excuses from LeBron and the franchise.
Lakers fan upset with LeBron James, team over 1-3 post-NBA cup record
The Lakers, after clinching a memorable NBA trophy in Vegas against the Pacers, have gone on a poor 1-3 record in the regular season, which many have pointed out as the cause of the recent poor outings. Despite LeBron’s 25 points, Davis’ 32 points, and Reaves’ 20 points, the Knicks were still able to clinch a 114-109 victory against the Lakers.
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Following LeBron’s recent interview with reporters, where he hinted that road trips have caused their poor outings in the regular season, the NBA fans on X, have taken turns blasting LeBron and the Lakers. A fan harshly stated that the idiots (Lakers) gave all their time and effort for the stupid tournament (in-season).
Idiots sold their souls for that stupid tournament https://t.co/r2tmD3aG6v
— O.B🇹🇷 (@Obolatcan24) December 19, 2023
Also, a fan appeared to mock LeBron’s statement of encouraging his team to stay focused, which the fan questioned the focus of the team in the past.
"Stay locked in"? When did you start?
— LakerGang0824 (@Jgoody0824) December 19, 2023
Additionally, another fan ironically asked if the Lakers were deceived to receive an automatic playoff spot, after winning the novel in-season tournament.
lol did someone fool them into thinking winning the IST gives you an automatic playoff spot https://t.co/6zA3vePC1b
— vinpaul (@vinpaul) December 19, 2023
Nevertheless, the Lakers, after the Vegas matchup with the Pacers, have suffered defeats against the Mavericks, Spurs, Knicks, and only managed a win against the Spurs in the first fixture. Interestingly, the Pacers have also struggled with losses against the Timberwolves, Clippers, Wizards, and Bucks.
Moreover, during his interview, LeBron appeared to be taking a dig at the Pacers when asked if they were experiencing the same fate as the Lakers after Vegas. Known for delivering outstanding performances when his team needs him most, LeBron might be the key when the Lakers face the confident Chicago Bulls next.