LeBron James, the Los Angeles Lakers star, ‘should be in the MVP debate’ after setting an NBA record.
Despite being in his 21st season in the NBA, the Los Angeles Lakers great continues to play at an extraordinarily high level, surpassing 39,000 career points in Tuesday’s play-in playoff victory.
Christian Wood of the Los Angeles Lakers believes that his teammate LeBron James should be an MVP candidate this season.
The renowned NBA figure will turn 39 next month and is in his 21st season in the league, where he is averaging 26 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, and two steals per game in the Lakers’ strong start to the season.
Following the Lakers’ win over the Utah Jazz on Tuesday night, in which James passed 39,000 career points while also ensuring a quarterfinals position in the NBA’s new in-season tournament structure, Wood believes his performances should put him in the running for the prestigious award.
“He’s incredible, man,” Wood told reporters after the game. It’s difficult for me to put into words. The manner in which he conducts himself both on and off the court, the manner in which he enters the facility in the morning – his preparation for each game and how he cares for his body…
“To do what he does at the age of 38 is incredible.” As you can see, he has the ability to score, rebound, and pass. I believe he should be considered for MVP. What 38-year-old do you know who does what he does? It’s amazing.”
James became the first man in NBA history to surpass 39,000 career points, establishing himself as the league’s all-time leading scorer, a figure he surpassed last season – all while remaining one of the league’s finest players.
When the feat was announced, the four-time MVP took a minute to rejoice with his colleagues at the legendary Crypto.com Arena, saluting the audience in attendance.
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On Tuesday night, when questioned about the milestone, James replied, “I haven’t really had a chance to wrap my head around what it means.” There have been so many excellent players and scorers in this league since its inception. Being the first to do anything is always exciting. Definitely a wild moment.”
If the Lakers advance in the new in-season tournament format, they will play in the quarterfinals on December 4 and 5, with the semi-finals and finals taking place later that week in Las Vegas. The wins count towards the team’s regular season record – and are a new structure introduced to increase competition during the lengthy NBA season.
While James may be in the running for the NBA, he is now outside of the top five favorites, with Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, Joel Embiid, Jayson Tatum, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the KIA MVP race.
