“That’s His Impact”: Damian Lillard lauds LeBron James For Turning the Los Angeles Lakers Around

The NBA recently announced that the eight regular-season games played in Orlando will not affect voting for regular season awards. So if either LeBron James or Giannis Antetokounmpo outdo each other in those eight games, it wouldn’t matter. Both have had phenomenal seasons and they have voters in a spot. But Portland Trail Blazers superstar Damian Lillard has made up his mind about it.

While making an appearance on the Dan Patrick Show, Lillard was asked his opinion on the MVP race. He said, “I don’t think you can go wrong with LeBron or Giannis. But in my opinion, it’s LeBron. Just because they’re the number one seed in the Western Conference. And I feel like he’s had a dominant season… In year 17? Leading the league in assists. … for how he’s been able to take that team from a non-playoff team for (6) years and now they’ve jumped to number one. That’s his impact.”

After six years, LeBron finally led the Lakers to the playoffs. To do so, and become the number one seed in a stacked Western Conference, is testament to his greatness.

LeBron James: 2012 vs 2020

Later he was asked the about how LeBron has grown as a player ever since Lillard entered the league. He replied, “He’s still super fast and athletic. But when I came into the league, it was unbelievable. I think that’s the biggest difference. He’s always been a thinker, a smart player, and now that has even heightened. He’s less in speed and athleticism and power but more (into) pick his spots, control and manipulate the game and use his athleticism and gifts in spurts.”

Earlier, LeBron’s game involved more driving to the paint. But now, like Lillard mentioned, he is not as athletic as he was before. So he is trying to focus more on his perimeter shooting. The last two seasons have been the most 3 pointers he has attempted.

LeBron was always a high IQ player, but as he is getting older, he is using this IQ to create more for his team. Not only is this his career-best, but he is also leading the league in assists with 10.6 per game. He has an All-NBA teammate in Anthony Davis and is focused on getting the best out of him. This duo has been one of the best in the league this season, and the Los Angeles Lakers will hope they can carry the team to a title.