LeBron James is a reborn defensive mastermind
But passing and facilitating aside, LeBron’s basketball renaissance in 2019-20 had as much to do with his defense as his offense. For years, his harshest critics (and some diehard fans as well) lambasted what they perceived as a clear lack of effort on defense.
After years of contending for (and never winning) the Defensive Player of the Year Award, LeBron made a conscious decision in his early 30s to conserve energy on the defensive end to help maintain his offensive production.
Well, that chapter came to a close in 2019. Aided by a less physically debilitating offensive style and perhaps reinvigorated by the arrival of Davis and defensive-minded head coach Frank Vogel, LeBron started refocusing on the defensive end. He proved his ability on that side of the ball with marquee, lockdown defensive performances against reigning MVP, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Clippers stars, Kawhi Leonard and Paul George in March and July of 2020 respectively.
Plus, few will forget the incessant stream of chase-down blocks from LeBron throughout the 2020 playoffs. But it’s never about individual performances with LeBron. As the unquestioned leader of the defense along with Davis, James helped the Lakers attain the third-best defensive rating in 2019-20. This year, they rank number one.
Conclusion
To be clear, LeBron James was incredible in both his stints in Cleveland and Miami. His scoring ability peaked (at least statistically) in the late 2000s. His athleticism reached its pinnacle in Miami. His determination and resolve to carry an entire franchise on his shoulders will never be higher than those four years in Cleveland from 2015-2018.
But Los Angeles Laker LeBron James is the most complete, highest-IQ, makes-his-teammates better version of himself to date.
Whether or not the Lakers capture the 2021 title will depend in large part on the status of LeBron’s ankle and if Davis can find his usual form. Just imagine, however, if LeBron wills these ailing Lakers over the super-team Brooklyn Nets. Talk about the opposite of a demise.
I, for one, certainly wouldn’t put it past him.