Four games have put the Los Angeles Lakers in shambles. Up until now, Russell Westbrook took the majority of the blame for the 16-time champions’ disastrous start. However, not having him in the lineup didn’t change the result. The Lakers put on yet another abysmal shooting display. In addition, LeBron James didn’t look like himself against the Denver Nuggets. And this made his biggest critic question his heart for the LA franchise.
Last season proved that the King is still capable of ruling the NBA. In his 18th season, he averaged nearly 30 points and was the highlight of the season. Surprisingly, despite the failures, he resigned with the purple and gold in hopes to redeem the Laker nation. However, with the start of the new season, his decision has come under the hammer.
The Lakers have arguably looked worse putting up historically worst offensive numbers. And going up against the reigning MVP, it looked like James was never in the game. Likewise, his hottest hater, Skip Bayless ripped into the four-time MVP for his lack of willingness in the loss.
Has LeBron James given up on the Lakers?
Before the game against the Denver Nuggets, the purple and gold were shooting just 21% from three, the league’s worst. However, their worst shooter, Russell Westbrook was out for the game. Hence, there was hope for a different-looking and cleaner offense. However, what the Laker nation got was another mess. Nikola Jokic stole the game in the 110-99 win for Denver, LeBron James was nowhere near himself putting up just 19 points, 7 rebounds, and 9 assists with a ghastly 8 turnovers.
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NFL legend Shannon Sharpe is one of the biggest advocates for the King. However, on this night even he saw something wrong with James. He pointed out the 2020 Finals MVP’s first shot only came towards the end of the first quarter with a few seconds on the clock. When the debate shifted to Bayless, he didn’t waste any time. The controversial analyst hinted at LeBron James giving up on the current Lakers.
He said: “I don’t know what’s going on. Is something going on off the floor? I don’t know. Is LeBron just losing heart for this?”
James defended his poor performance saying he wanted to get the other guys involved. His priority going into the game was to create an offense with the guys around. However, with three losses on the trot, the Lakers were desperate for a win. Hence, it would probably have been better to take it upon himself to carry them back to glory. Now, in a few hours, James has the chance to redeem himself by going against a young Minnesota Timberwolves.
Watch This Story: Will the Lakers trade Russell Westbrook before the trade deadline?
Do you think LeBron James will unleash his aggressive side and bring a W to Laker nation? Let us know your views in the comments below.
The post “Is LeBron James Just Losing Heart for This?”: Moments Before the Lakers Star’s Cryptic Message, Staunch Critic Questioned His Commitment appeared first on EssentiallySports.
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