The opening match of the regular NBA season kicked off on a not-so-great note for the Los Angeles Lakers. The team recorded an unimpressive 107 against Denver’s 119. To add to this frustration, LeBron played just 29 minutes. This choice by the management enraged many fans.
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LeBron is a veteran on the court now and fans think that this is disrespectful to him. With the years of experience that he has, it is only justifiable that the team uses his expertise. But, head coach Darvin Ham seemed to have other things in his strategy and decided to restrict his play time.
Darvin adds fuel to the fire
If the fans were already pissed at the choice, Ham’s comments post game did not help. He was asked if it will continue throughout the season. To this, he replied, “We’ll see. In all likelihood, yes.” He also added that it could build from there, but it all depends on how James feels in addition to the team’s training staff decisions.
Darvin Ham on if LeBron James’ 29 minutes will be a trend this season: “We’ll see. In all likelihood, yes.” Ham added that it could build from that number depending on how James feels and what the team’s training staff decides.
And fans are not happy with this. Many are of the opinion that if this continues, winning the championship is going to be a distant dream.
My lakers not serious about winning…
Darvin Ham on if LeBron James’ 29 minutes will be a trend this season: “We’ll see. In all likelihood, yes.” Ham added that it could build from that number depending on how James feels and what the team’s training staff decides.
Oh our season is actually over 💔
You can’t win with this. Prepare to be in the play in again even if they stay reasonably healthy
Some fans even questioned Ham’s coaching skills and asked for his removal immediately.
Fire Ham
Darvin Ham on if LeBron James’ 29 minutes will be a trend this season: “We’ll see. In all likelihood, yes.” Ham added that it could build from that number depending on how James feels and what the team’s training staff decides.
Some fans also see a point in this
While most fans were angry, there were others who agreed with Ham’s decision. They argued that it was not about James played fully in one game. Rather, what more important, is him being present throughout the season. At 38, James has had a few injury scares. While he may still maintain his health with surgical precision, it is always better to prevent the worst from happening.
People bashing Ham are unserious. LeBron is in year 21 and they're trying to preserve him for the longevity of the season. They committed enough in salary for others to step up.
Darvin Ham on if LeBron James’ 29 minutes will be a trend this season: “We’ll see. In all likelihood, yes.” Ham added that it could build from that number depending on how James feels and what the team’s training staff decides.
Tbh if we want him available and healthy enough in the playoffs then it’s gonna have to be around that. 28-32 in the regular season and then it’ll bump up in the playoffs.
Darvin Ham on if LeBron James’ 29 minutes will be a trend this season: “We’ll see. In all likelihood, yes.” Ham added that it could build from that number depending on how James feels and what the team’s training staff decides.
Some more fans are of the opinion that this will the younger players a chance to step up and contribute to the team.
This approach with LeBron makes sense...assuming the Lakers get (a lot) more from Anthony Davis, Austin Reaves, D'Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura
Darvin Ham on if LeBron James’ 29 minutes will be a trend this season: “We’ll see. In all likelihood, yes.” Ham added that it could build from that number depending on how James feels and what the team’s training staff decides.
Was this the reason why they chose to restrict LeBron? What are your thoughts on this move? Let us know in the comments