LOS ANGELES — Forward Jarred Vanderbilt said LeBron James’ command of the game remains the key factor that distinguishes the 41-year-old star from the rest of the NBA.
Speaking after practice this week, Vanderbilt, recently returned to the Los Angeles Lakers’ rotation, described what it is like to watch James continue to excel in his 22nd season.
“The things he’s still able to do at this age and at this level of his career are still impressive,” Vanderbilt said. “Each and every day I’m like, ‘Dang, it’s still impressive to see him play at this high of a level at this age.’”
Vanderbilt emphasized that James’ basketball IQ has allowed him to offset any drop in athleticism.
“His IQ,” Vanderbilt replied when asked what separates James from other greats. “Being able to read the game, know his spots, know where he wants to get to, know where guys’ hot spots are, how teams are guarding us. Him being able to grasp that in real time and apply it not only for himself but for the team on both ends of the floor — that’s what separates him.”
The veteran forward added that while James may have “regressed” physically, his mental approach “is still extremely high,” enabling the four-time MVP to remain productive in multiple roles. On Nov. 18 James and Vanderbilt were photographed together on the bench during the Lakers’ game against the Utah Jazz at Crypto.com Arena.
Vanderbilt’s comments echo recent praise from Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant, who said he believes James is still improving despite his age. The Lakers rely on that savvy even more with guard Austin Reaves sidelined, increasing the workload for both James and Luka Doncic, whom the organization regards as the current face of the franchise.
After Los Angeles snapped a losing streak against the Sacramento Kings, Doncic acknowledged that greater effort must begin with himself and James as the team pushes to stabilize its defense and overall play.
Source: LakersNation.com
