Taking care of your body is key to having a long NBA career. And LeBron James is a perfect example of the same. He will enter his 19th season in the NBA with the Lakers this year. However, his game has shown no signs of slowing down and he is still as explosive as ever.

Last year, James suffered an injury before the playoffs. Since then, the ‘King’ stated that he may not return to his full productivity. But, recent reports suggest that he is taking appropriate measures to make sure he returns at his best. With the Lakers looking for a championship this season, his contributions will be crucial for them.

So what is it that James is doing to ensure he makes the full use of his body?

LeBron James is slimming up

According to Rob Pelinka, LeBron has slimmed up as the Lakers enter this season. He is entering his 19th season and will turn 37  in December. Hence, he feels that a leaner physique will help him be more explosive. But is this true for the King?

LeBron is one of the best rim drivers in the league. Despite being 36, his explosiveness is on par with most youngsters that play the game. Moreover, he has also improved his shooting significantly as compared to his early days. So why does he need to slim down?

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Firstly, LeBron’s body is weary. His body has a lot of miles on it and he needs to do his best to reduce the load on his body. While the ‘King’ seems to be ageless, averaging 25 points for the season is not an easy job. Especially when you are in your 18th season.

Secondly, being more explosive is a welcome change. LeBron James is a muscular man with a huge frame. The 6’8 forward could run through anyone when in his prime. But now, with his body giving in, he needs to make certain adjustments to get the best out of it. Hence, slimming up is not all that bad, but it will also mean that he won’t be able to take as much contact while going to the rim.

Looking at the Lakers team here, is age really an issue?

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Can age stop the Lakers?

While LeBron turns 37 in December, his productivity will still be as high as ever. However, he isn’t the only player on the Lakers who isn’t affected by age.

The Lakers have some of the best players to push the rim. Apart from the Akron Hammer, Russell Westbrook and Dwight Howard are always on the athletic end. Their age has had no effect on their crazy athleticism. Even Howard, who turns 37 this year, can catch and finish lobs with ease.

With the younger side, a healthy Anthony Davis will also return this season. Hence, there is no doubt that this team will pose a threat no matter how old. With James, Westbrook, and AD on the floor at the same time, no rim protector is safe against them.

Do you think the Lakers have a shot against the younger teams? Let us know in the comments below.

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