LeBron James will be celebrating his 36th birthday on the road against the San Antonio Spurs, so the Los Angeles Lakers decided to greet the forward two days earlier at Staples Center.
Per Jovan Buha, James received an early birthday greeting mid-game during the Lakers' duel with the Portland Trail Blazers. Since this will be their last home game before they head to a four-game road trip, the franchise decided to surprise James.
The Lakers just wished LeBron James an early birthday. His birthday is Dec. 30. pic.twitter.com/x3OrCImsWr
— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) December 29, 2020
Much has been said about James' age vis-à-vis his performance on the floor. Most athletes decline once they enter their early-mid 30s. But James has not shown any remarkable signs of slowing down with the Lakers. Days before he enters his late 30s, James is still in peak form, still at full strength and hungry for his fifth ring.
Analysts have pointed out that James has been pacing himself at this stage of his career. The Lakers don't necessarily place him under “load management.” But rather, in several possessions during a game, James seemingly prefers to stand around and let his teammates orchestrate. This is a major step back from before where he practically did everything for his team.
This isn't some lazy showing but just some smart basketball. It would simply be foolish for a 35-year-old James to play like a 25-year-old one. The four-time MVP is merely adjusting his playstyle to achieve longevity. Besides, the Lakers front office has done a splendid job at surrounding him with great teammates.
And whether you're a LeBron hater or not, you would still love to see him play for a few more years with the Lakers. LeBron has been a great gift to the NBA, to professional basketball, and to the Laker franchise, so it is fitting — and sweet — to see this storied franchise make a generous and eloquent gesture to its King.
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