LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers reminded the basketball world that they still have a lot of fight left in them. It has been a shaky season for the 32-28 Lakers but Wednesday’s memorable comeback win against city rivals the Los Angeles Clippers sent a clear message to the league.
James was exceptional on the night recording his 13th 30-point game of the season. At one stage in the fourth quarter, the Lakers trailed by as many as 21 points before “King James” turned it on. The four-time NBA champion finished with 34 points, 8 assists and 2 blocks to guide his team to a narrow victory.
Lakers coach Darvin Ham was as amazed as the rest of during his postgame press conference.
“He had the cape tucked under his seat on the bench,” said Ham. “It was time for him to whip it out, he definitely did that.
Ham went on to praise James’ shooting, which has been stellar all season long. He also credited the four-time MVP for getting his teammates involved late in the game.
"He had the cape tucked under his seat on the bench… it was time for him to put it on."
– Darvin Ham on what it's like when LeBron goes on a tear pic.twitter.com/Bmmj9X9i5e
— NBA (@NBA) February 29, 2024
LeBron’s fourth quarter numbers set the tone for one of the great comebacks of the NBA season. The Lakers trailed 93-106 late in the game before a late push saw them edge a 111-106 lead. James by himself outscored the Clippers in the fourth quarter 19-16.
At 39 years old, James continues to prove age is just a number. This season, he is averaging 25.2 points, 7.1 rebounds and 7.9 assists per game.
The Lakers will face the Washington Wizards next before a tricky matchup against the Denver Nuggets.
