LeBron James urges NBA defenses to treat Shai Gilgeous-Alexander like Giannis Antetokounmpo
lebron-james-urges-defenses-to-treat-shai-gilgeous-alexander-like-giannis
After the Los Angeles Lakers were swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs, LeBron James used his “Mind the Game” podcast to explain why he believes Shai Gilgeous-Alexander should command the same attention Giannis Antetokounmpo receives in transition.
James noted that when Antetokounmpo collects a rebound, opposing coaches immediately shout for defenders to sprint back, load the paint and form a wall. He argued that Gilgeous-Alexander deserves identical treatment, even though the Thunder guard lacks Antetokounmpo’s 6-foot-11 frame and brute strength.
According to the four-time champion, Gilgeous-Alexander compensates with sharp angles, strong shoulders and an ability to turn a back-pedaling defender’s speed against him. James said any team that fails to send two or three bodies toward the ball in the open floor risks watching the back-to-back MVP “punch gaps,” reach the rim or draw free throws.
Lakers’ strategy left others open
Head coach JJ Redick tried to crowd Gilgeous-Alexander, forcing him to see multiple jerseys on every possession. While that approach kept the guard’s scoring in check, it created space for Chet Holmgren, former Laker Alex Caruso and rookie Ajay Mitchell to find rhythm. The Lakers never solved the dilemma of restraining Oklahoma City’s role players once Gilgeous-Alexander passed out of pressure.
Healthy offseason for a 41-year-old star
James, who completed his 23rd NBA season, missed the first 14 games of the year with sciatica but finished the campaign without lingering issues. He told listeners he is relieved to enter the summer free of rehab commitments, a notable milestone at age 41 while he considers his next career move.
Source: LakersNation.com
