The Los Angeles Lakers survived the Houston Rockets in round one, largely thanks to LeBron James turning back the clock to claim a 4-2 series win.
James was forced back into a primary ball-handler and scoring role when Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves got hurt, but he was more than able to answer the call. Fortunately for the Lakers and James, Reaves was able to return in Game 5 and helped the team eventually close out the series in Game 6.
Reaves is one of the best success stories in the NBA, but he said no matter what else he accomplishes in the league it’ll pale in comparison to winning as one of James’ teammates, via Dan Woike of The Athletic:
“Top of the list,” Reaves told The Athletic. “… After the game I came over and I was like, ‘You’re literally incredible.’ Like, this isn’t me like, I’ve never asked him for anything. I’ve never … I just said, ‘Thank you.’ I want our relationship to be genuine and I told him like, real s—, thanks for letting me be a part of this.
“‘Cause it’s like every single night it’s something new and he’s literally incredible.”
At 41 years old and in Year 23, James has redefined the modern NBA superstar’s prime and by the looks of things he could easily play a couple more seasons if he chooses to. James’ ability to stay prepared both physically and mentally is truly unmatched and it’s hard to imagine another player coming along and replicating his production and longevity.
Reaves is one of the fortunate players in NBA history that gets to play and succeed alongside James and the two now have the challenge of trying to dethrone the defending champions in the second round. The Oklahoma City Thunder enter the series as massive favorites, especially because Doncic is reportedly set to miss the start of the second round.
Winning with James up to this point has been exciting for Reaves, but if they manage to get past the Thunder that would be an incredible feat to put on their respective resumes.
Why LeBron James thanked RJ Barrett and Raptors
The Lakers and Thunder are to set play to Game 1 on Tuesday, a couple of days later than expected. The game was pushed out after the Toronto Raptors forced a Game 7 against the Cleveland Cavaliers thanks to RJ Barrett’s dramatic 3-pointer.
Los Angeles got a couple of days off and James made sure to thank the Raptors and Barrett for giving him extra rest.
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