With this possibly being LeBron James’ final season in the NBA, every game means a little more. That is the case even more so when the Los Angeles Lakers make their lone appearances in certain places, and their one trip to New York to play at Madison Square Garden certainly qualifies.
The Lakers made played their lone game in New York on Sunday night, falling 112-100 to the Knicks. LeBron finished with 22 points, five rebounds and six assists while knocking down 9-of-15 from the field. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough as another poor third quarter was the difference in the Lakers coming up short.
Nonetheless, James was reflective after the game, saying that it means everything for him to be able to perform at Madison Square Garden and hopes he was able to leave his mark as a visitor, via Spectrum SportsNet:
“Everything. I mean it’s the mecca of basketball here in New York City. Obviously it’s the Big Apple, being here at MSG, playing here. So many guys have walked this court either from basketball to entertainment, to actors and musicians, everything. It’s been a wide range of importance of people to be able to grace this floor and I hope I have a little small snippet of somebody that came through here and was able to make a little small dent from a visitor’s perspective. So it’s cool, it’s always electric in here. They find a way to make sure I’m here on weekends, pretty much, but it’s a pretty cool treat.”
LeBron would also show love to the New York fans who he praised as being extremely knowledgeable about the game of basketball:
“Pretty cool man. I’ve always loved these fans here, love New York. Always respect. They’ve got a great knowledge of the game of basketball and sports in general. They know what sports is all about. They know when they see something pretty cool so I just give my respect back.”
Madison Square Garden is known as “The World’s Most Famous Arena” for a reason and the atmosphere there is truly unlike any other. LeBron has been able to make many memories there and if this truly is his last time playing on that court, everyone who has gotten to witness him playing there is thankful.
Given he is a free agent this offseason though, James’ comments will only spark speculation about potentially joining the Knicks, something he has contemplated for a while now.
Lakers’ LeBron James ‘honored’ to be named All-Star
NBA All-Star reserves were announced and for the 22nd time in his career, LeBron James was named to the All-Star team with the Lakers superstar saying he was blessed and honored at the achievement.
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