Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick hailed LeBron James after he scored 40 points against the Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday night. James was doubtful because of a left foot and ankle injury but he took the onus on his shoulders in the absence of Luka Doncic, who was out to manage his left calf injury.
James took the Lakers to a 110-102 win against the Trail Blazers after he could not score the winning basket against the Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday night.
“He really just defies anything that’s normal,” Redick said. “And not just the physical feats and the plays. It’s the mentality. … He’s a billionaire. And he’s playing on the second night of a back-to-back at 40 after 22 years with every fricking record and every accolade. … It’s like, he’s amazing to coach. … He sets the standard for how you’re supposed to approach this craft.”
This is the 22nd NBA season for LeBron James and he is still delivering the goods at the top level. The veteran said he loves the game and wants to keep giving his best on the court.
“I still love the game, and I still got a lot to give to the game, to give to my teammates, to give to this league for while I’m here,” James said. “I don’t have much time left. So, while I’m here today in this time, I’m going to try to give what I got when I’m out on the floor.
“So, why? It’s the love of the game and I have an opportunity now to show my son the ranks of how to be a professional in this league. And to be along [with] him every single day, that’s a treat.”
Redick said his team must play hard to get the desired results in the league.
“There’s actually only one cheat code in the NBA, and that’s playing hard,” Redick said. “If you play hard every night, you have a chance to win. If you don’t play hard every night, you’re probably going to lose.”
James concurred with his coach, saying “That’s the best way to play in this league. The best way to compete in this league is to play hard. You can get through a lot of games if you’re able to just play hard. You’re able to cover up for a lot of mistakes. We had 24 turnovers for 31 points. I had half of those. … It definitely makes up for it when you’re able to cover for one other and you’re able to play hard. It’s going to help us win a lot of ballgames.”
The Lakers will next take on the Denver Nuggets on Saturday.
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