LeBron James has been playing some excellent basketball over the past month or so, and it is even more remarkable when one considers he just turned 38 years of age.
In December, he averaged 31.2 points on 54% shooting, 7.6 rebounds and 7 assists a game, and he started the new year with 43 points on 16-of-26 shooting from the field and 11-of-15 from the free-throw line, 11 rebounds and six assists.
The Los Angeles Lakers have won three of their last four games thanks to his exploits, but there has been a downside: He has been playing heavy minutes.
James is averaging 36 minutes a game this season, and he has logged over 39 minutes in both of his last two games.
Even though many feel James’ minutes should be reduced a bit in order to preserve him, head coach Darvin Ham believes the opposite.
Via ESPN (h/t Lakers Daily):
“I just want to ride him,” Ham said. “And he allows you to do that because he takes such great care of himself. So, it’s a great luxury to have.”
While James has a responsibility to play his best and empower his teammates, the Lakers also have a responsibility to keep him healthy and fresh for the long run, whether they choose to ride him or play it safe.
