LeBron James Shuts Down “Jealous” Accusations Against “Face of the Franchise” Anthony Davis After Inaugural In-Season Tournament Win

The Los Angeles Lakers have created history, as they become the first franchise to win the In-Season tournament. Despite being initially criticized by the basketball fraternity, the In-Season tournament has become a huge success. The Lakers’ victory means that LeBron James adds another trophy to his enormous collection. The Indiana Pacers put up a good fight, but they couldn’t contend with the formidable duo of LeBron and Anthony Davis.

LeBron and AD have formed a deadly partnership in their four years together. However, there have been rumors of envy or jealousy between the two athletes in recent months.

LeBron James rubbishes any claims of jealousy

In the In-Season finals, Davis and Bron dominated the game, as the Lakers won the match 123-109. Anthony Davis scored a match-high 41 points, along with 20 rebounds and 5 assists. Whereas, LeBron played a good supporting role, as he recorded 24 points and 11 rebounds. The Lakers’ win shows the wonderful chemistry the two superstars have.

However, there were rumors of friction between the two stars. But, after the game, LeBron dismissed any rumors of jealousy. He said, “There’s no friction. We’re not trying to compete with one another on the court or on a lifestyle basis. He knows who he is, I know who I am… There’s not a jealous bone in our bodies. We’re never jealous of one another. Ever.”

This season is LeBron’s fifth season with AD, which is the most LeBron has played with any other star, surpassing the likes of Kyrie Irving, Dwyane Wade, Kevin Love, and Chris Bosh. LeBron even implied that the Lakers were now AD’s team before the start of the season. He said, “He is the face (of the franchise). You look at all these (retired) numbers that surround this facility, all the greats that have come here, and AD is one of them.” With the In-Season trophy in the bag, the Lakers will aim for the NBA title next.

Do the Lakers have what it takes to become an NBA champion?

The Lakers’ In-Season tournament victory provided a huge confidence and morale boost for the players. But, they still aren’t considered favorites for the NBA title. Any team that has the likes of Davis and LeBron has got a chance. However, the Lakers need more pieces to be considered a title favorite.

Read More: Dedicating In-Season Tournament Glory to Cam Reddish, MVP LeBron James Doubles Down on Praise for Lakers Teammate

They are still behind the Boston Celtics, Denver Nuggets, and Milwaukee Bucks in the title’s favorite pecking order. They need to add another star player or a few compatible role players before the trade deadline in February to stand any chance of winning the NBA title. Last season, the Nuggets swept the Lakers in the conference finals, and their current roster isn’t a lot different from then. Can the Lakers win it all? Let us know in the comments below!

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