The Los Angeles Lakers picked up an impressive 110-102 win over the Portland Trail Blazers last night as Austin Reaves and LeBron James combined for 72 points. James was especially impressive, cracking the 40-point barrier for the third time since turning 40 years old.
James' accomplishments at his age have no comparison in NBA history. As a result, Reaves passionately stuck up for what LeBron is doing now and said that anyone discrediting his achievements is just a Michael Jordan fan.
"He really doesn’t have anything else to prove. And if people say he does, then they’re Jordan fans”
While Reaves' message about LeBron having proven his worth over his career is solid, it is a little unfair to just classify every hater as 'Michael Jordan' fans. There is a genuine issue where fans of one player endlessly criticize another player to bring them down. However, all sensible fans should know that LeBron and Jordan are both solidified with incredible legacies that might never be matched.
Reaves was right to praise LeBron, as the 40-year-old put up 40 points, eight rebounds, and four assists in the win. While his critics point out his 11 turnovers as well, everyone knows LeBron did it all to ensure the Lakers won last night without Luka Doncic available.
Austin Reaves had a great game himself, putting up 32 points (9-21 FG) and seven assists to supplement LeBron's incredible night.
JJ Redick Gave LeBron His Flowers For Defying Age
What LeBron has done over the last 10 played games by averaging 28.6 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 8.7 assists is incredible. He's 9-1 in these games, arguably earning status as the best player in the NBA over February.
JJ Redick was blown away by LeBron having such an impactful performance on the second night of a back-to-back.
"He just defies everything that's normal. Not just physical feats and plays, it's the mentality. He is a billionaire and he's playing on the second night of a back-to-back at 40 after 22 years with every freaking record and accolade. And the kids will say that I'm glazing him. He's one of the greatest competitors."
"He's amazing to coach. He brings it every single day. He sets the standard of how you're supposed to approach this craft. That to me is the most incredible thing. Just a mindset to do it, get up, next day do it, over and over again."
LeBron is averaging 24.7 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 8.9 assists this season. Redick is understandably blown away given he's LeBron's age but has been retired for four seasons. What James is doing isn't normal and shouldn't be underappreciated. The head coach highlighted that, and it's a message that should ring loud.
