NBA
LeBron James’ rage against the dying of the light is tipping in Father
LeBron James’ rage against the dying of the light is tipping in Father
Two months after his 38th birthday, 19 days since setting the NBA’s all-time scoring record, and a week following a record-tying 19th All-Star appearance, LeBron James is still giving Father Time a game for the ages.
In fewer than two hours Monday, news snowballed from the Lakers ruling James out for a vital game against the Memphis Grizzlies to reports that his right foot injury will likely sideline him for “an extended period” (multiple weeks even) to his confirmation that this, indeed, “F*n sucks.”
Just as his 12th-place Lakers were showing signs of life, having won four of five games since an active trade deadline, James is waging battle with the one opponent he cannot beat, and they are headed for another overtime. What becomes of the Lakers in his absence is an afterthought.
The basketball vitality of one of the all-time greats — perhaps the all-time great — is in serious peril.
Even with James, the Lakers faced a narrow path to avoiding a second straight lottery appearance, let alone emerging from the opening round of the playoffs for the first time since their championship in 2020. His latest absence is further evidence that the bubble title was the anomaly, not the injuries around it, and we are now years into a natural decline that comes with age, whether James or anyone else will admit it.
Relative to the rest of his remarkably durable career, James’ tenure in Los Angeles has been plagued by injuries practically from the start. On Christmas 2018, two months removed from his Lakers debut and five days before he turned 34, James strained his groin. His ensuing 17-game absence marked the first significant injury of his career; he had previously never missed more than 13 games in any one season.
LeBron James’ rage against the dying of the light is tipping in Father
James played 156 straight games before the groin strain, including two grueling Finals runs, a league-leading 3,026 minutes in his final season with the Cleveland Cavaliers, and his first 34 games with the Lakers.
Since then, his longest streaks without the benefit of an offseason are the 24 straight games he played en route to a title in the bubble and the 25 consecutive he played before his left knee swelled in January 2022.
So when James said of the stretch run at his pregame All-Star news conference on Feb. 19, “It’s 23 of the most important games of my career for a regular season,” his “hope I can figure out a way to just make sure that I’m available on the floor every single night” was just that: hope against an undefeated Father Time.
Between his groin and knee injuries, James nursed thoracic and abdominal muscle strains, a sore left ankle, and a high right ankle sprain. He has made every Christmas Day and All-Star appearance since arriving in L.A., but his availability in the days and weeks following those showcase games has been sporadic at best.
The Lakers managed his minutes after the 2019 All-Star Game, shutting him down completely once they were eliminated from playoff contention. In the hours before the coronavirus pandemic paused the NBA season on March 11, 2020, then-coach Frank Vogel told reporters that the Lakers would treat James’ lingering groin injury with caution, balancing a “big-picture mindset” with their pursuit of a top playoff seed.
LeBron James’ rage against the dying of the light is tipping in Father
A four-month respite, a load-managed reentry into a shortened regular season and the absence of travel on the Walt Disney World campus afforded James enough rest to perform at his peak for 21 playoff games. He averaged 28-11-9 on 56/37/72 shooting splits, leading the Lakers to their championship in the bubble.
A week after the 2021 All-Star Game, James sprained his right ankle. He missed 26 of his next 28 games, returning for a first-round playoff exit. Last season, he returned on a swollen left knee in time for his 18th All-Star appearance, only to rest it again two weeks later. He gutted through two more weeks for the Lakers until his left ankle sprain and their playoff elimination prematurely ended a second season in three years.
The 2022-23 campaign has been more of a slog for James, whose participation in 47 of the Lakers’ 61 games is a credit to his physical prowess. He reinjured his groin three weeks into this season, returned for three games, and reinjured his left ankle three days later. He played through both ailments, averaging 36.5 minutes per night and only occasionally missing a game for a back-to-back, a four-day rest, or an illness — until he broke Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s career scoring record against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Feb. 7.
It was then that what had previously been described as “a day-to-day thing” was deemed more serious. James rested his sore left ankle for the next three games, a weeklong reprieve during which Lakers head coach Darvin Ham said an MRI revealed no structural damage and Turner’s Chris Haynes reported, “It’s something that’s been nagging him for a few weeks already, but it gets to points where it just gets unbearable, and he plays through it. People that talked to me said he was struggling with that foot.”
When asked if the Lakers planned to rest James through All-Star weekend, Ham told reporters, “No, I don’t think he’d allow us to do that.” Indeed, James returned for the final game before the break, suggesting that his MRI results were “absolutely” a relief and declaring, “My ankle and my foot feel good right now.”
READ MORE: Andrew Wiggins family matters: Latest updates on why Warriors forward is not playing
James played 14 minutes of the All-Star Game, citing a bruised hand after calling it a night at halftime. He played 26 minutes of a blowout win over the depleted defending champion Golden State Warriors in the first game back from the break and then reinjured his right foot in a comeback victory against the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday. He finished the game, despite telling teammates in the third quarter, “I heard it pop.”
The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported Monday that the Lakers were preparing for another extended absence, and in an addendum, Tuesday, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski firmed up the timeline. James will be reevaluated in two weeks when the 12th-place Lakers will reassess their position in the standings and reportedly determine whether it makes sense to expedite the 38-year-old’s return for a late playoff push.
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LeBron James’ wife Savannah divides opinion as her latest report exposed
In the realm of NBA royalty, LeBron James and his wife, Savannah James, have carved a niche for themselves, with their enduring relationship often under the spotlight. A recent TikTok video, however, has ignited discussions about Savannah’s preferences when it comes to taking fan photos, particularly the apparent divide between male and female admirers.
The King’s Queen: Savannah’s Photo Strategy Unveiled
LeBron James, often hailed as the ‘King’ on the basketball court, is no stranger to the adoration of fans. Yet, it’s his Queen, Savannah James, who recently took center stage in a TikTok video capturing her interaction with fans. The footage suggests a notable trend – a willingness to pose for photos with female fans while seemingly avoiding snapshots with their male counterparts.
Social Media’s Take on Savannah’s Actions
The TikTok video spurred a wave of reactions across social media platforms, with users expressing diverse opinions on Savannah’s approach. The majority lauded her for maintaining a poised and respectful demeanor, commending her loyalty to LeBron James, her high school sweetheart. The top response on TikTok emphasized the need for respect in the face of potential misconceptions, garnering over 8,000 likes.
LeBron James’ wife Savannah divides opinion as her latest report exposed
Defending the Kingdom: Fan Reactions
Supportive comments flooded the video, praising Savannah for upholding a certain standard in public interactions. One fan noted, “That’s how you keep yall kingdom together salute,” underscoring the importance of unity in the face of external scrutiny. However, not all reactions were positive, with some fans expressing frustration, labeling James as “rude” or suggesting she was “overcompensating.” The authenticity of the video itself was also questioned, with speculation about the specific circumstances of the filmed encounters.
Unraveling the Debate: A Closer Look
While debates raged on, some users pointed out that the manner in which male fans approached Savannah could have influenced her response. Suggestions surfaced that a different approach might have yielded varied results, adding a layer of complexity to the discussion. Whether or not the video accurately portrayed Savannah’s overall photo preferences remains uncertain, but its impact on public discourse highlights a recurring theme in LeBron James’ career – the maintenance of a scandal-free personal life, with his relationship with Savannah playing a pivotal role.
READ: Ayesha Curry posts tender photo of her son Canon
LeBron James’ Legacy: A Career Steered Clear of Scandals
Throughout his illustrious NBA career, LeBron James has skillfully navigated the challenges of fame, avoiding personal scandals that often befall high-profile athletes. The enduring bond with Savannah James has undoubtedly contributed to this narrative, with their relationship serving as a beacon of stability amid the often tumultuous world of professional sports.
Beyond the Lens
In the ever-watchful eyes of fans and critics alike, the dynamics of celebrity relationships, even in seemingly mundane scenarios like fan photos, become subjects of scrutiny. Savannah James’ approach, as captured in the TikTok video, has sparked conversations about respect, loyalty, and the intricacies of navigating public life as an NBA power couple. As the debate unfolds, one thing remains clear – in the world of the King and his Queen, every snapshot tells a story, whether through the lens of a camera or the lens of public perception.
Ayesha Curry posts tender photo of her son Canon. Setting the Mood for 2024: Ayesha Curry Shares a Heartwarming Photo of Son Canon
On the dawn of the New Year, Ayesha Curry, the wife of NBA sensation Steph Curry, took to social media to share a heartwarming snapshot of their youngest son, Canon, enjoying a day on the golf course. The photo radiates joy as the five-year-old sports enthusiast mirrors his father’s passion, flashing a contagious smile that undoubtedly sets a positive tone for the Curry family.
“Great first day of 2024! This is my mood,” Ayesha expressed alongside the delightful image.
The Warriors’ Uphill Battle in the 2023/24 Season
While Ayesha Curry celebrates family moments, her husband, Steph Curry, faces on-court challenges with the Golden State Warriors during the 2023/24 NBA season. Despite Curry’s remarkable individual performance, contributing significantly in points, rebounds, assists, and three-pointers, the Warriors find themselves grappling with a series of setbacks.
Ayesha Curry posts tender photo of her son Canon
As of now, the team holds a record of 15-17, securing the 11th position in the NBA Western Conference standings. The Warriors concluded the past year with a disheartening three-game losing streak, including a recent defeat against the Dallas Mavericks.
“It’s frustrating, for sure,” expressed Curry, reflecting on the team’s struggles.
Chris Paul’s Arrival and the Quest for Consistency
In an effort to fortify the team, the Warriors acquired veteran point guard Chris Paul in the off-season. However, despite this addition, the team continues to face challenges. Curry underscores the urgency of establishing a consistent starting lineup, recognizing it as a pivotal factor in overcoming their current hurdles.
“32 games in and any team that is a seriously competitive contender, a good team can answer that question [on who is the team’s best starting five]. We have to get to that point, for sure, before it’s too late,” emphasized Curry.
READ: Twitch and Kick fight for LeBron James as NBA star reveals the…
Looking Ahead: The Need for Swift Lineup Decisions
In the quest for redemption, Stephen Curry advocates for swift and decisive measures in determining the team’s starting lineup. The seasoned player recognizes the importance of this aspect for a team aspiring to be a serious contender in the NBA. As the Warriors navigate through the challenges of the season, establishing a reliable starting five emerges as a key focus for the team’s leadership.
In Conclusion
As Ayesha Curry shares a glimpse into the warmth of family life on New Year’s Day, the Golden State Warriors find themselves at a critical juncture in the current NBA season. While Steph Curry continues to shine individually, the team’s struggle highlights the complex dynamics of professional basketball. With the spotlight on consistency in the starting lineup, the Warriors aim to turn the tide and regain their competitive edge in the league. The journey ahead remains uncertain, but the Warriors, led by Curry’s unwavering determination, are poised to face the challenges head-on, seeking victory and redemption in the games to come.
Discover more about the Golden State Warriors and Steph Curry’s journey here.
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Twitch and Kick fight for LeBron James as NBA star reveals the…
The dynamic world of streaming is set for another seismic shift as NBA legend LeBron James expresses his desire to enter the streaming arena. In a twist that caught the attention of industry giants Kick and Twitch, both platforms are vying for the honor of hosting LeBron’s gaming exploits.
LeBron James’ Streaming Ambitions Unveiled
On December 29, 2023, LeBron James, widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, dropped a bombshell on the gaming community. The NBA superstar announced his intention to start streaming Madden NFL games but was unsure about which platform to choose.
“Who should I stream with? Meaning which platform brand?” LeBron inquired, setting the stage for a fierce competition between Kick and Twitch.
Kick’s Persuasive Pleas
Not wasting any time, notable figures from Kick, including Trainwreck and Adin Ross, swiftly responded to LeBron’s call for suggestions. Trainwreck encouraged LeBron to “stream with us,” while Adin Ross went a step further, enticing the basketball icon with promises of a royal bag.
“Come to Kick. I’ll get you a bag, my glorious king,” Adin declared, showcasing the platform’s eagerness to secure LeBron’s presence.
Twitch and Kick fight for LeBron James as NBA star reveals the…
Even Kick’s Head of Strategic Partnerships, Andrew Santamaria, joined the fray, hinting at a special contract offer in the works for the Lakers’ star. The battle lines were drawn as Kick aimed to sway LeBron with both charm and lucrative opportunities.
Twitch CEO Makes His Pitch
Not to be outdone, Twitch CEO Dan Clancy entered the ring, advocating for his platform. Acknowledging his bias as the head of Twitch, Clancy boldly claimed, “Twitch is the best platform for engaging with your fans.” He even suggested the possibility of simultaneous streaming on both Twitch and YouTube, leveraging the latter’s improved multi-streaming rules.
The tug-of-war intensified as both Kick and Twitch presented compelling cases, leaving fans and industry insiders eagerly awaiting LeBron James’ decision.
Fousey’s Mental Health Struggles on Kick
In a separate development, Kick streamer Fousey stirred concern among fans after revealing his mental health struggles during a stream with Adin Ross. Fousey, an OG YouTuber who transitioned to Kick following Twitch bans, shared insights into his challenging journey.
Fousey’s Troubled Past and Kick Comeback
Fousey’s tumultuous 2023, marked by bans, swatting incidents, and a concerning call to the police, raised alarms within the community. Despite a hospitalization for a mental health evaluation, Fousey returned to the streaming scene with an exclusive Kick deal in November 2023.
READ: Ex-NBA vets, social media react to Ja Morant’s obscure celebration
However, during a live broadcast with Adin Ross, Fousey opened up about his ongoing battle with depression. Admitting to feeling like he had “flopped” and detailing periods of isolation and lack of appetite, Fousey painted a poignant picture of his struggles.
Concerns and Support for Fousey
Fans expressed their concern for Fousey’s well-being, leaving comments on various platforms. Adin Ross attempted to offer advice and encouragement, urging Fousey to overcome the challenges.
As Fousey embarks on his Kick comeback with a stream titled ‘Day 1 in Depression Boot Camp,’ the community rallies behind him, hoping for a positive turn of events in 2024.
Ever-Evolving Landscape
As LeBron James contemplates his streaming platform of choice and Fousey navigates a challenging personal journey, the streaming landscape continues to evolve. The battle between Kick and Twitch for LeBron’s affiliation and the supportive community response to Fousey’s struggles underscore the dynamic nature of the digital entertainment sphere.
For the latest updates on these unfolding stories and more, stay tuned to Dexerto, your source for all things gaming, streaming, and influencer culture.
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