- Russell Westbrook’s brother seemingly reacts to LeBron James being disappointed that Lakers didn’t acquire Kyrie Irving
- Josh Giddey downplays possibility of LeBron James breaking scoring record vs. Thunder
- Report: Raptors and Jazz are ‘plan B’ options for Lakers while Hornets, Spurs and Bulls are other ‘teams to watch’
- Report: Lakers had ‘serious concerns’ about Kyrie Irving’s professionalism and availability
- Report: Lakers still optimistic they can upgrade their roster before the trade deadline
- Report: Nets owner’s presumed objective was to send Kyrie Irving anywhere but Lakers
- Report: Lakers could be willing to give up Austin Reaves and Max Christie for Kyrie Irving in unexpected twist
- Report: There’s pessimism that Lakers will land Kyrie Irving due to his contract demands
- Anthony Davis preaches ‘urgency’ as Lakers lose critical game to Pelicans
- Russell Westbrook’s brother seemingly agrees that Lakers won’t make playoffs if they trade him
Jeff Van Gundy Says Those Who Think LeBron James Wouldn’t Thrive in Past Eras ‘Need to Be Drug Tested’
- Updated: May 6, 2020
With the airing of ESPN’s documentary “The Last Dance,” much is being made about players’ abilities to compete in different eras.
For those who do not believe LeBron James would be great in any era, Jeff Van Gundy has a simple message: “You need to be drug tested.”
“If you’re trying to tell me that LeBron James, with that athleticism, that skill level and that strength couldn’t be great back then… Man you need to be drug tested.”
– Jeff Van Gundy on how great players would be great in any era. pic.twitter.com/Ts0LR3OS1U
— Golic and Wingo (@GolicAndWingo) May 6, 2020
Van Gundy, who spent 11 seasons as a head coach in the NBA, specifically highlights James’ athleticism, skill and strength as reasons why the four-time MVP would dominate across basketball eras.
Van Gundy coached in the NBA in the ’90s and early ’00s, and he led the New York Knicks to a finals appearance in the lockout-shortened 1999 season.
Though the former coach noted the more physical nature of earlier basketball eras, he clearly believes that James would have no problem adjusting to more contact.
James’ all-around game would likely help in any era. The three-time NBA champion has career averages of 27.1 points, 7.4 rebounds and 7.4 assists per game.
Since being drafted in 2003 by the Cleveland Cavaliers, James has played 17 seasons in the NBA. The Akron native has dominated throughout his career, appearing in 16 All-Star games and being selected to 15 All-NBA teams.