LeBron James was riding high on a wave of excitement after signing a four-year $154 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers in July. But the enthusiasm cooled significantly following the team’s 3rd straight loss.
LeBron James and the Lakers ran into a brick wall during an overtime loss to the San Antonio Spurs at home on Monday night.
Lakers fans are left wondering if their hopes of going to the NBA playoffs after a 5-year drought will be realized this season.
The blame for the team’s disastrous start falls squarely on the shoulders of LeBron James, who downplayed the team’s 3rd straight loss.
“I know what I got myself into. It’s a process. I get it. And it will be fine,” James said in the locker room after the loss.
After battling back from 6 points down in the final seconds of the 4th quarter, James shot a game-tying 3 from the top of the key with 3.3 seconds left to send the game into overtime.
L.A. quickly jumped out in front 142-136 in OT, but James missed two crucial free throws with 12.8 seconds left on the clock. “We had our chances,” he said after the game. “I mean, we were up 6 with a minute to go or less than a minute to go. And just couldn’t get a stop.”
James’ bad luck continued when he attempted a game-winning step back jumper that clanged off the rim in the final seconds.
“I missed two free throws, which is unacceptable. And then they made a shot, and I missed a shot,” he said, accepting the blame for his team’s stunning come-from-ahead loss.
The Lakers opened their season with a loss at Portland, then they lost to the Houston Rockets, who started the game at 0-2, as did the Lakers.
The Lakers continue to struggle with subpar shooting from the 3-point line and dreadful defense.
The loss of 2 starters — Rajon Rondo and Brandon Ingram, who were suspended for fighting in the game against the Rockets, only adds to the Lakers woes.
For now there is no talk of the playoffs as the Lakers fight to keep from falling to 0-4 when they limp into Phoenix to play the 1-2 Suns on Wednesday.
“I’m up for the task,” said James. “I want what’s best for this team and it takes going through some ups and downs. I know what I signed up for. This was all expected.”
Photo by Harry How/Getty Images
….but Bron ain’t the only one on the team
It’s extremely early in the season. They’ll be fine ?
He cant do it by himself
He’s got some young knuckleheads on that team. Good luck to them!
Lately my asss cheeks been itching, I wonder what that means? ?
Yew know zactly what that means…dey durty lol
Championships doesn’t happen over night. Lebron (Whom I worked with) has a long road to get there again. Which he will eventually.
Was just about to type that myself
Meh says the basketball head. Whatever
NOT BAD….all three games were close! LA Bron w a new team of sucker punching young guns will be dynamic by mid season.
Hey Lebron ?
they’ll be the shyt next year
This reminds me of working on a job..when one employee work Is substandard,the entire shift is reprimanded. Not just that one person.
***KANYE SHRUG’S ONTO THE NEXT POST***
Should have went to the sixers
should have came to Toronto
Meh not saying they’re going to the playoff’s, however many of the Fav’s seasons started just like this. They’ll get the groove going soon.
I had Lebron’s back through everything until he started trashing our President. You can disagree but you respect the office of the President. Just like John McCain lost my support, so does Lebron. His big mouth and his ego can’t save him now. He better play for that money or retire. Karma is a bish.
Who are you? You’ve worked with everyone famous.
Not everyone.
We asked him to join the Rockets but that kneegrow wanted the glitz of Kardashian, CA. Too bad so sad.
Shut up
Lebron James is in decline.
$38.5 mil a year to go to a city which holds your outside interest, was a win for him. The Lakers weren’t that great last year. They were just a younger version of what he had in Cleveland. They will probably figure it out sooner than later but I would be surprised if they made it to the playoffs.
Be name dropping on the constant.
Be name dropping on the constant.
[facepalm]
Cosigns
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hl-WDxx1rpE
He’s with a bad team. I predict that mid-season, they will have traded half the team, bring in players that Lebron wants — and maybe a new coach.
I don’t think anyone is surprised by this. Every team needs a minute to gel.
The current president doesn’t respect the office. So why should LeBron?
Next time write “should have come.” This is not to be smart. It’s just so you know.
Next time write “should have gone.” This is not to be smart. It’s just so you know.
If this is happening mid season then I’ll be nervous. It’s only the third game.
I miss him in the land but wish him the best.