To anyone who’s watched LeBron James play within the past two weeks, the idea that he might be worn out from a summer playing for the U.S. Olympic team probably seems about as ridiculous as the idea of the Tampa Bay Rays making the World Series this year. Then again, we all know how that turned out.
From Nov. 5-8, James averaged 41 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists, shooting 50 percent from the field and 44 percent from long range. Do these seem to be the stats of a tired ballplayer in need of rest? I don’t think so.
Back in September, the Cavs told LeBron to take some time off to "recharge his batteries," and stay away from the gym for a couple of weeks. This makes sense, seeing as King James is, without a doubt, the key to any Cavs run for the championship this year, as was the case each of the three previous seasons.
There is no question King James can rise to the occasion of trying to take the entire team on his back and sprinting full tilt towards the postseason—at least for now. But how long can he continue to put out the kinds of numbers he has been without taking a breather now and then?
The answer is simple. He can’t. This is why those situations where LeBron is off the floor, or intentionally hanging back to let his teammates take control are crucial to the team, as well as James’ longevity.
The only way the Cavaliers can hope to keep James from wearing out and bring a title to Cleveland is to play like a complete team at all times.
They need to stop having occasions where it seems as if the other players are just LeBron’s supporting crew, all watching in awe as he attempts to do it all on his own. If they can do that, there is no telling what they can accomplish.
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