At 34 years old, LeBron James has plenty of mileage on his body.
It would be understandable for the Los Angeles Lakers star to subject himself to load management and miss some games this season. However, James recently dismissed the idea.
“If I’m hurt, I don’t play. If not, I’m playing,” James told ESPN after the Lakers’ win against the Miami Heat on Friday. “That’s what has always been my motto.”
Last season, James suffered the first major injury of his 17-year career. He missed 17 consecutive games, a career-high, because of a groin injury and missed 27 games overall. In the past, he has never been out for more than 13 games in a single season.
But James has shown he is healthy this season. He is averaging 26.0 points, 7.8 rebounds and 10.5 assists per game. He also registered three consecutive triple-doubles in the Lakers’ most recent three-game road trip.
While his stats are what the league has been accustomed to seeing, it is his defensive effort and intensity that have caught the eyes of many. James has helped lead the Lakers to the top of the standings by making an impact on both offense and defense.
A championship run for the Lakers relies on James’ health. So the organization and fans are hoping that even without load management, James can stay in good condition throughout the season.
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