“Without Kevin Durant, LeBron (James) Got Steph in His Backpocket”: ex-Teammates Give Lakers Superstar an Upper Edge For the 5th Ring

LeBron James and Stephen Curry are two of the biggest NBA faces. Over the years, their clashes during the playoffs have evolved into a captivating spectacle. Furthermore, fans have celebrated their intense rivalry for nearly a decade. Commencing in the 2015 NBA Finals, their matchups have consistently drawn massive attention, even last year, eight years later. James is known for his unrivaled dominance, while Curry is known for his havoc on the court.

In the 2023 season, LeBron will celebrate his 39th birthday, while Steph will turn 36 near the playoffs. Understanding their age and closing window, both players are wholly dedicated to another NBA championship. With four chips already to their names, their pursuit has given birth to fervent and passionate discussions among fans and experts.

Former teammate claims LeBron James to rise over Curry

In a recent?NBA Today?episode, Malika Andrews was joined by Zach Lowe and Richard Jefferson to dive into a lively discussion about the Los Angeles Lakers. Adding to the conversation virtually was Kendrick Perkins. The focal point of their discussion revolved around a burning question: which team, the Golden State Warriors or the Lakers, would secure an NBA championship ring this year?

Richard Jefferson, LeBron James‘ ex-teammate, confidently asserted his belief that the Lakers had a real shot at winning the title. However, it was another former teammate, Kendrick Perkins, who made an audacious statement in favor of LeBron. Perkins boldly proclaimed, “First of all, when it comes down to the head-to-head matchup. Between LeBron and Steph ? Steph without Kevin Durant? LeBron got Steph in his back pocket, that’s No. 1.”

Perkins believes the Lakers currently boast one of the most well-rounded rosters in the entire NBA. He contends that when assessing all 30 teams, the Lakers’ new lineup stands head and shoulders above the rest.

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Furthermore, Perkins asserts that the foundation of the Lakers’ strength lies in their astute re-signings, notably of players like Austin Reaves, D’Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Rui Hachimura, who played pivotal roles in the Lakers’ success last season.

The Lakers will face Denver, Warriors and Phoenix in October

For a considerable time, the Lakers have remained somewhat underrated as a collective force. To be candid, the team hasn’t quite lived up to expectations since their championship triumph in 2020. It was only after the trade deadline last season that fans finally witnessed the true potential of the LA squad on the court.

However, as they enter the 2023 season, the Lakers want to kick things off on a strong note. The NBA preseason begins in early October. As their first matchup, the Lakers will clash with the Warriors on October 8. Furthermore, they will once again lock horns with Golden State on October 14. Additionally, they will take on forces of Milwaukee Bucks and Phoenix Suns on October 16 and 18, respectively. Further, preseason matchups against the top contenders for the upcoming season can steer the new unit in the right direction if needed.?

In their season opener on October 25, the Lakers will confront their old nemesis, the Denver Nuggets, who haunted them last season. Subsequently, they’ll face the Phoenix Suns and the Sacramento Kings in rapid succession on October 27 and 30. To ensure a smoother journey in the long haul, the Lakers must markedly improve their performance from the previous season’s last four NBA games.

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Currently, the LA team boasts one of the most well-balanced rosters in the NBA. It’s a blend of defensive stalwarts, versatile big men, and sharpshooters, offering them a promising edge as they embark on the upcoming season.