“He Challenged His Manhood”: How Jimmy Butler Might Be Behind LeBron James’ Changed Approach

The championship ring is hovering closer by the day for the Los Angeles Lakers. When entering the NBA Finals, the Miami Heat was carrying a dominating momentum that looked very threatening to the Lakers’ chances. However, it looks like LeBron James and co. knew exactly how to put that to a halt.

Holding a commanding 3-1 lead, NBA Legend Scottie Pippen thinks LeBron is the driving force behind the team’s success.

Lakers’ LeBron James is in the form of his life

On ESPN’s ‘The Jump’, Scottie Pippen stated that LeBron has a lot to do with the Lakers’ lead in the series. “You know I really think it’s LeBron’s will. He’s imposed his will in this series like none other,” said Pippen.

“I’ve watched LeBron throughout his whole career and the fact now that you see in this series like he’s not waiting for Anthony Davis to light up or to get going.”

Pippen further explained the difference he is seeing in LeBron’s performance from years ago. He said, “He’s not allowing Miami to make these runs to gain the momentum, and that’s the difference that I’ve seen in LeBron in these finals compared to what I’ve seen him in the past. It’s where he’s given up the ball, he’s gone and stood in the corner. You see very little of LeBron taking off on plays in this NBA Finals.”

Bulls’ Legend even lauds the other players who have played their roles to the best. “I think Anthony Davis is having a heck of a series. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is having a heck of a series.” asserted Pippen. “I think all of his supporting cast is having a great series, but I think it’s the fact that LeBron has led, not followed, and he’s forced these players to follow.”

Did Heat’s Jimmy Butler wake the beast?

Scottie also has reason to believe that Jimmy Butler has a lot to do with LeBron’s form in this series. “In the past season, LeBron has stayed back and been more of a guy who’s facilitated.” reminisced Pippen. “He’s used his will, and I think it’s really because Jimmy Butler challenged him. He challenged his manhood and like he felt like he had the upper hand on LeBron James.”

In conclusion, he said that he hasn’t seen any old veteran play with such prowess. “He is playing like he’s still got five years left in the tank.” There is no denying that LeBron James will forever be one of the finest in the NBA’s history. It won’t be surprising if it feels like he has retired in his prime.