The Lakers have won two of their last three games as LeBron James has returned from his injury looking strong.
James’ foot injury was expected to sideline him for longer but James fast-tracked his return to help with the Lakers’ playoff push. Richard Jefferson said on ESPN that he believes LeBron lost weight to alleviate the pressure on his foot and add speed.
Richard Jefferson Says LeBron James Has Strategically Lost 10-12 Pounds After Foot Injury
“Well, one of the things I’ve noticed is that he looks like he lost about 10, 12 pounds from the time that he got hurt to now. It looks like he’s trying to take the weight off of that foot, make him a little bit lighter, make him a little bit quicker.”
James has had an evolving body type over his NBA career but the last few seasons have to be among the heaviest he has sought to be. He played center for the Lakers last season at various points and primarily played as a power forward this year until the team added versatile forwards like Rui Hachimura and Jarred Vanderbilt to the rotation. Malik Beasley joined as a shooting guard or wing, while D’Angelo Russell has re-established himself as their starting point guard.
Is LeBron James Ready For A Possible Title Push?
Slowly but surely, championship expectations are being put on the Lakers again. Even though James has averaged just 20.3 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 7.0 assists since coming back, people are taking comfort in the fact that Anthony Davis looks like his old dominant self. AD has been averaging 38.7 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks since James returned, looking like the definite number-one option on the court.
The versatility that the Lakers have added around LeBron has made it much easier for him on the court. He’s been playing under a minutes restriction since returning and has been excelling at breaking down the floor for his dynamic teammates to attack for buckets. James put on a playmaking clinic in the first half of their latest win against the Houston Rockets, breaking down defenses without straining his body.
James will be looking to impose his will in the playoffs, as he has a career-long reputation for doing so. He’s using this time to get chemistry with his new teammates and has found out that they are exceedingly capable of closing out games.
Source: https:/fadeawayworld.net
