LeBron James recently gave an answer about back-to-backs that goes against the way the league usually talks about them. While the NBA continues trying to reduce those schedule quirks and limit the strain they put on players, LeBron James says he actually feels better on the second night.
LeBron James sees back-to-backs differently
On the Mind the Game podcast, he explained it plainly. “I’ve always felt like the second night of a back-to-back, I’ve always felt kind of better.” He admitted that the next morning does not always feel great. “I would wake up extremely tired… sleepy,” he said. But having those extra days afterward to recoup is a good thing.
It is an interesting way to look at it. For LeBron, it is less about fatigue and more about flow. Sometimes the first night knocks the rust off. The second night becomes about timing and feel.
The production backs him up. In January, he put up 24 points, seven assists, and four rebounds in 32 minutes against the Toronto Raptors on the second night of a back-to-back. A few days earlier, he went for 31 points, 10 assists, and nine rebounds against the Atlanta Hawks in the same scenario. Those are not reduced-impact performances.
That does not mean he ignores reality. After a January win over New Orleans, LeBron made it clear to reporters that nothing is automatic at this stage. “Every back-to-back for the rest of the season is TBD. I am 41. I got the most minutes in NBA history.” He understands the mileage better than anyone.
This season, he is currently averaging 21.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 7.1 assists. Strong numbers, especially for the oldest player in the league. But the Los Angeles Lakers have been careful.
He missed his 18th game of the season on Feb. 10 against San Antonio, which happened to fall on the second night of a back-to-back. Missing that game made it official that it would be the first season since his rookie year that he did not make an All-NBA team, ending a 21-year streak.
The Lakers’ approach is simple. January rhythm does not matter if April legs are not there. With four more back-to-backs left on the schedule, each decision will likely be made with the playoffs in mind.
Still, LeBron’s perspective stands out. In a league trying to soften the grind, he is talking about finding comfort in it. Not because he has to, but because he still believes there is something to gain from playing through it.