Even at the age of 39, LeBron James’ performance shows no signs of decline. He won the MVP for the Inaugural In-Season tournament by scoring 26.4 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 7.6 assists per game and is carrying his team. Even in the regular season, James has been consistent with his performances, whereas the same could not be said about his teammates as their stats have been fluctuating depending on their opponent. Due to this, the 19x All-Star’s teammates are blamed for the struggles of the franchise.

However, an NBA insider emerged as a new voice and called out LeBron for the problems in the Lakers’ squad. The insider recently appeared on the Tidal League podcast and said, “LeBron James, at the age of 39, still playing at a high level which is unbelievable. But as an NBA player, I know we always put the blame on everybody around LeBron.” However, he further added to ask the host Theo Pinson about the struggles the Lakers have been facing over the past couple of years and if the reason is that players find it hard to adapt to play with the L-Train.

Because being the veteran of the team and the most experienced on the squad, James will play according to his playing style and due to that, the others have to adjust according to how he is playing rather than play how they naturally do. He even gave an example of what D’Angelo Russell said about James, “Playing with him he is like one of the greatest. But you have to sacrifice so much to where like you cannot be yourself.”

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Not only Russell but there are a lot more players who have spoken about playing with James. Everyone had a good experience with him as a person, but all of them had the same complaint: you have to sacrifice your game and fit in with his game in order to prosper with him.

The highs and lows of playing with LeBron

Former teammates J.R. Smith and Tyson Chandler discuss the way playing with LeBron James has its distinct obstacles and expectations. In “Game Theory with Bomani Jones,” Smith described the situation as a “gift and a curse.” While Smith excelled under pressure, he admitted that not everyone enjoys the high expectations that come with playing beside one of the all-time greats. He said, “It’s either, what did you not do to help him win or who else didn’t help to not help him win?”

Chandler, who joined the 4x NBA champions’ club in November, underlined the importance of focusing solely on James and the sacrifices necessary to succeed. According to Chandler, coexisting with a strong presence like James needs an understanding of one’s position, career stage, and willingness to make sacrifices for the common objective of victory. In Chandler’s words, “It’s a sacrifice, but it’s a sacrifice for winning.” This demonstrates the unique set of problems that one has to face if he wants to excel alongside the L-Train.

So what do you think, is the sacrifice of your game valid to win a championship with the King? Let us know in the comments below.

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