The all-time points leader of the Toronto Raptors, Chris Bosh, had a glittering career. Although his career was cut short by a serious blood clotting condition, he won two NBA championships. He was on a team comprising Dwyane Wade and LeBron James, and this team was dominant. Although LeBron James was their marquee player, Bosh stood out as an important outlet for the Heat with his rebounding and shot-blocking ability.
Now, in a recent episode of First Take, Bosh discussed the problems faced by the Lakers heading into the playoffs. He stressed how the nagging injuries to LeBron James were a cause of concern.
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Chris Bosh on the impact of LeBron James’ injury on the Lakers
Bosh focused on how Bron and AD were important for the franchise’s ambitions for the season. In addition, he stressed the fact that Anthony Davis would need to step up his offensive outlet as he will be their go-to man.
Bosh said, “If you look back in the past in every playoff situation, we’ve never really seen Bron with a nagging injury. The last time he had a serious injury, he was able pretty much to sit out the rest of the season with that groin, and the Lakers were able to get a decent pick, and he was able to get a little bit of rest. They haven’t had any rest. They have continued to go, and we have seen that with the injuries to AD and Bron, and with Schroder being out due to unfortunate circumstances, they have so many challenges ahead of them.”
The former NBA champion further added, “They are still trying to figure out what they are gonna do as a team, identity wise, and how they are gonna put wins together, and most importantly, most importantly how is Bron gonna play with that nagging ankle injury, and how is AD going to handle being the number one scoring option, and how he is gonna adjust to defensives adjusting to him. It will be a very fascinating scenario for them but I think definitely with a lack of continuity, injuries, and with really just a non-stop schedule they have had since the bubble picked up last year, it will be a challenge.” said Bosh.
Can Anthony Davis step up in place of Bron?
The Lakers have the best defensive rating in the league but it is their offense that has taken a step back. James is vital for the Lakers for the variety of shots he conjures. They are 12-15 without him on the court. This highlights his importance to the franchise. He has averaged 25 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game this season but has only played 45 games. Although he performs well on the court, his niggling ankle injury proves to be a distraction.
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The Lakers face Golden State Warriors in the play-in tournament. Stephen Curry is having the season of his life as he aims to push the Warriors into the playoffs. Notably, Morris, Gasol, and Matthews have stepped up to the plate for the Lakers for the last couple of games but LeBron is still a huge miss. Anthony Davis will be the chief scorer for the Lakers now. He is more than capable but the efficiency with which LeBron plays on the court is irreplaceable.
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As the stage is set for a thrilling encounter, coach Frank Vogel has given the green light for James to play in the game. The fascinating matchup with Curry will be a treat to watch for all the fans in the NBA. But will LeBron be able to stop the Curry train?
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