Following Jersey Retirement News, LeBron James’ $53,827,872 Teammate Backs the Idea of Greatest Lakers Honor, Which Even Kobe Bryant Doesn’t Have

LeBron James has been going through significant ups and downs lately. He managed better stats than his career averages in his recent season at age 38. Soon, the exit against Denver Nuggets left the Chosen One to contemplate his playing days. Not many weeks after his ultimate decision to keep bestowing his presence on the court, he faced an unexpected family emergency. However, while fans’ prayers rest with James as he attends to his personal life, he is getting the treatment he deserves. Los Angeles Lakers governor Jeanie Buss recently guaranteed LeBron’s #23 jersey a spot in the rafters.

When looking meticulously, LeBron James appeared as a force when the organization was stumbling on the crag. Putting his legacy on line, James took command of the declining trajectory of the Lakers. He did not make the playoffs in his initial year with LA; something which he experienced only in his initial two years in the league.

Austin Reaves talks about putting LeBron James on a pedestal (literally)

Austin Reaves has joined the discussion about the LeBron James-Lakers statue debate. This comes after Hall of Famer James Worthy claims that LeBron has yet to be on the team long enough to warrant a statue. Reaves has proved himself to be a standout player. Throughout his early NBA days, James’ presence has ascended his overall capabilities on the court. As a result, he is contributing to easing LeBron James’ workload at 38.

LeBron James is set to be remembered as a monumental sports icon in global history. When asked about his take on a “LeBron Statue,” Reaves immediately agreed. “He came to LA at a time where wasn’t having much success [Lakers] and in, what was it, 2-3 years put a banner in the rafters, so why not?”

There was never any question about Reaves’ backing, and he makes a case for James deserving a status among the Lakers. James uplifted the Lakers during uncertainty when no one else could. Even the team’s management had struggled to form a playoff-caliber roster before James’s arrival.

Moreover, considering the team’s knot with lost legend Kobe Bryant, LeBron James is likely the best successor they could have hoped for.

LeBron hypes Reaves on his Team USA debut

In their initial exhibition game for the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, Austin Reaves and Team USA displayed their prowess against Puerto Rico on Monday. Despite a slow beginning, the USA dominated with a 117-74 victory. Reaves added nine points, four rebounds, and four assists at 50.0% from the field. 

Read More: Despite Injury Concerns, WNBA Veteran Defends Lakers’ $186,000,000 Decision: “I Understand the Qualms”

In light of his first-ever Team USA game, LeBron James acknowledged Reaves’ and enthusiastically supported him.

After the game, Reaves responded to a question about his star teammate’s endorsement. The Lakers’ shooting guard conveyed his gratitude for James’ unwavering support and guidance.

Reaves has improved tremendously over the years. From limited minutes to making crunch time plays, he has displayed a mindset of a winner. Competing against the world’s top players in FIBA will imbue the young star with fresh confidence. The newfound assurance could contribute to a championship run alongside James this year.

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