The All-Star practice and media day took place yesterday before Saturday’s All-Star festivities. However, 20x NBA All-Star LeBron James missed the practice and his media duties. Many fans thought that LeBron’s recent ankle injury, which forced him to sit out against the Utah Jazz, was the reason behind his absence. However, King James has done this for the previous two iterations of the All-Star Weekend.

In prior All-Star Weekends, LeBron would typically arrive on the day of the All-Star Game, and this season follows that pattern as well. Despite missing the All-Star media duties, LeBron James was present for a scheduled conference at 5:00 PM ET, where he spilled some beans.

During the conference, King James hinted that he might have a reduced role in the All-Star Game. He said, “I won’t be playing the entire game tonight for sure. I’ll get out there, run around with the young guys for a little bit, and then shut it down at some point.” While younger players may prioritize performing well in the All-Star Game, it holds less novelty for LeBron, who has already played in 19 of them. Given the Lakers’ championship aspirations and LeBron’s age, it’s clear that he would prioritize rest and recovery. But do the Lakers have the necessary firepower to secure their 18th NBA title and help LeBron achieve his fifth championship?

Can the Lakers make an improbable title charge?

Fans of the Los Angeles Lakers have endured one of their most disappointing seasons in recent history. Before the start of the season, many expected the Lakers to challenge for the title. They even started the season in promising fashion, winning the first ever In-Season Tournament (now Emirates NBA Cup). However, their form has been abysmal since their NBA Cup triumph.

They currently languish at the 9th spot in Western Conference standings, with 30 wins from 56 games. Furthermore, the underlying statistics don’t paint a positive picture for Lakers fans. They currently possess the 12th worst offense, with an offensive rating of 115. The Lakers fare slightly better on the defensive end, with a defensive rating of 115.1, ranking them 14th in the league.

Trending

“Ain’t Ready for Him”: Michael Jordan’s Grandson’s Sneak Peek Given by Daughter Jasmine

February 20, 2024 07:15 am EDT

Allen Iverson Comes Clean on Shaquille O’Neal’s Loyalty Beyond $10 Billion Ties

February 20, 2024 08:39 am EDT

“I Have 4 Wives”: 13 Years After $200,000 a Month Divorce, Shaquille O’Neal Makes a Heartening Marriage Confession

April 10, 2023 10:08 pm EDT

Who Is Shaquille O’Neal’s Ex-Wife? What Was the Reason Behind Their Divorce?

April 10, 2023 04:11 pm EDT

“Sh*t Ain’t Right…RIP”: Ja Morant Grieves for Beloved Family Member, Expresses Deep Love Online

February 20, 2024 10:45 pm EDT

Get instantly notified of the hottest NBA stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

Kevin Durant Namedrops 3 Current NBA Stars to Take the Mantle From Him, Stephen Curry and LeBron James

Despite enduring an underwhelming season so far, the Lakers still have a shot at the coveted Larry O’Brien trophy. Moreover, they have shown a marked improvement in recent performances. In fact, the Lakers are currently on a three-game winning streak. However, could this form translate into the postseason? Let us know in the comments below!

Watch this Story: James Harden Crowned Honorary Clippers All-Star as NBA Legend Gives Russell Westbrook His Flowers Too