LeBron James has commented on the Lakers’ win against the Pelicans and his impressive 17 assists in the final game of the regular season.
In an unusual turn of events, the Lakers are set to play the Pelicans again in the Play-In Tournament, following their 124-108 victory over the Pelicans at their home arena on Sunday.
“You can’t get overly excited about one win because you have to prepare for the next game,” James told reporters. “While we played well tonight, there are areas we can improve on and lessons to take from this game. However, Tuesday’s game is a fresh start and a great opportunity for us.”
James likened the situation of playing in New Orleans twice in quick succession to the first and second games of a playoff series.
“If you win the first game, the other team has several days to dwell on that defeat, still feeling that bitter taste of losing. So, they’ll be highly motivated for the rematch, and we need to approach it with the same level of urgency we had in the previous game,” he added.
LeBron wrapped up his 21st regular season with an impressive performance, tallying 28 points, 11 rebounds, and 17 assists. He emphasized his readiness to adapt to any role required on the court on any given night.
“I’m all about winning, so I adjust to whatever the game demands from me – whether that’s being more aggressive, shooting from long range, setting up teammates, or playing strong defense. I see myself as a Swiss Army knife on the court, capable of doing it all, but nothing is set in stone,” LeBron elaborated.
Approaching 40, LeBron acknowledged feeling “better than he did at this point last season” in terms of injuries.
“At this stage of my career, playing over 70 games and being available for my team for most of them – with only a few absences due to injury or illness – feels great,” he said.
Despite Zion Williamson’s formidable presence on the court, the Lakers managed to limit him to 12 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists.
“He’s a force to be reckoned with, almost unstoppable. Our strategy is to keep a body on him and make things difficult. But he’s an exceptional player. Fortunately, I have teammates supporting me and we’re constantly communicating to handle that matchup,” LeBron commented.
The Lakers are set to take on the Pelicans at 7:30 PM ET on TNT this Tuesday, April 16.
