The Los Angeles Lakers will kick off the regular season on October 21 against the Golden State Warriors. The Lakers are 0-2 in the preseason so far, including a 111-103 loss to the Warriors. LeBron James is yet to appear for Los Angeles, and fans will continue to wait.
James will be sidelined for three or four weeks with nerve issues. He is expected to be back in action by Halloween at the earliest, missing at least five games.
James is yet to share the floor with Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, or Deandre Ayton this summer, causing concern about their success to start the season.
James has come under fire for his aggressive approach to recovery and load management, but not everyone is sold on it being a bad thing.
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 05: LeBron James #6 and Rui Hachimura #28 of the Los Angeles Lakers react during a 125-118 loss to the LA Clippers at Crypto.com Arena on April 05, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
Charles Barkley Has ‘No Problem’ With LeBron James
Most former players and analysts condemn stars for resting during the regular season. However, James will turn 41 years old in December and has more miles on his body than any NBA player ever.
It’s safe to say that he has an excuse. Besides, it’s only the first five games of the season.
“I have no problem with a guy being that old sitting out,” declared Charles Barkley on the Rich Eisen Show. “He’s not gonna gain anything in the preseason. LeBron has paid his dues way beyond what he’s done for the NBA. And the Lakers, they just gotta stay healthy for the playoffs. Doesn’t matter what they accomplished during the regular season or anything like that.”
The Lakers have very real title hopes, and by rushing James to play a few mostly meaningless games, Los Angeles could cause further damage. James’ play–or lack thereof–doesn’t really matter until the postseason race heats up.
In an ideal world, James would be productive in all 82 games. However, that’s an unreasonable expectation for any player, much less the most experienced player of all time.
Preseason Play Doesn’t Matter for LeBron James
Even the best players in the world use preseason to ramp up and get in playing shape before the season. James, however, is one of the most displiced players of all time and has a personal staff of trainers.
Besides, the competition in the preseason is often subpar.
“LeBron, what is he gonna accomplish if he’s playing 20 minutes in the preseason?” asked Barkley. “First of all, half the guys he plays against ain’t gonna be in the league in a week and a half. They’re gonna be working somewhere. So no, there’s no need to play at his age.”
While fans pay good money to see the Lakers play, especially against the Warriors, the Purple and Gold loyal can all admit that they would rather see James on the court in the postseason than facing off against Stephen Curry in the first of 82 games.
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post Charles Barkley Gets Brutally Honest About LeBron James’ Injury appeared first on Heavy Sports.