LeBron James
No best lineup should ever exclude LeBron James, whether that is the Lakers or the entire NBA. Not only has LeBron James earned that, but he continues to play at such a high level that warrants his inclusion.
As both a fan of the purple and gold and as a general NBA fan, watching basketball during the age of LeBron James has been an immense pleasure.
Say what you will about James, he is one of the greatest basketball players any of us has ever seen or ever will see.
LeBron’s’ greatest feat is playing the game at such a high level for so long and the entire time making it look effortless.
LeBron’s God-given, superior athleticism has taken him a long way during his NBA career. However, his basketball IQ, his ability to push himself to constantly be better and his off the court ideals have turned LeBron James from merely a basketball superstar into a global icon.
LeBron’s philanthropic efforts in Akron are legendary. Having set up the I Promise public elementary school, the Akron native not only set up a school in which people from his community can attend but the school also offers the children and parents help with funding for books, school supplies and even food for those who are struggling.
LeBron’s “more than an athlete” mantra has inspired change and activism through professional sports, leading players to understand their worth and fight for player empowerment as well as standing up against social injustices within their community.
Even at this late stage of his career, King James is still one of the most potent players in the entire NBA. Try and stop LeBron in transition with a full head of steam and you are going to be in a whole lot of trouble.
LeBron can take you in the post and hit you with a wide variety of post moves which will lead to an easy bucket. LeBron has also added a consistent 3-point shot to his arsenal, so if you disrespect him from the 3-point line, he is going to pull up and drain a long-range bucket.
LeBron’s most effective and useful talent at this stage of his career is his playmaking. At 6″8, he can see over the top of every single defense and using his basketball IQ can pick them apart within a split second.
LeBron’s ability to dish the ball in the pick and roll is elite and with the likes of Anthony Davis and Dwight Howard on the roster, very high assist numbers will be coming this season.
LeBron is still one of the ultimate closers in the NBA. While Anthony Davis is going to be the defacto main man for the Lakers this coming season, don’t get it twisted, the Lakers’ championships aspirations firmly lay in LeBron James’ hands.