The Los Angeles Lakers beat the Brooklyn Nets 116-104. LeBron James made nine of 10 three-pointers, scoring a game-high 40 points, and also achieving seven rebounds and five assists.
When asked about his teammate’s performance, Anthony Davis summed it up with just one word.
“It’s always enjoyable to watch,” Davis informed reporters on March 31. “He continues to add to his record for the most points in NBA history. His performance tonight was exceptional.”
Davis recorded 24 points, 14 rebounds, and three blocks against the Nets. This marked his sixth consecutive double-double and his 59th of the season, which is the third-highest in the NBA. third-most in the NBA. Despite his stellar performance this season, Davis has been overshadowed by James’ increasing list of achievements.
James discussed his improved shooting as he progresses in his career.
“I don’t rely on it heavily,” James stated after the game regarding his improved three-point shooting. “I don’t aim to attempt 12-15 threes per game. However, I want to earn respect, forcing teams to guard me from the perimeter. Teams still prefer that I shoot from the outside if they have to concede something.
“Improving my three-point shots and free throws has been crucial for me this season and the past few seasons, honestly.”
The Lakers' victory marks their sixth win in the last seven games.
They also maintained their lead over the Golden State Warriors, who have won four consecutive games and trail the Lakers by just 1.5 games for ninth place in the Western Conference standings.
James' nine three-pointers matched his career best, while his 40 points equaled his season high for the second time.
LeBron James Provides Perspective on Future After Remarkable Performance
This was a strong recovery by James after scoring only 16 points in the loss to the Indiana Pacers on March 29, and struggling with three-pointers, going 3-for-11 in his last four games, with a 0-for-4 performance in the most recent two.
James also openly discussed his future as he concludes his 21st regular season.
“Not much time left,” James saidJames expressed. “I’m clearly on the downhill, and won’t play for another 21 years, that's for sure. But my time is limited. I'm uncertain when I’ll retire, but it won’t be long.”
James has been very open about nearing the end of his career, but has not declared this as his final season. On the contrary, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst believes that James is angling for a long-term deal.
“I don’t think this is LeBron’s last hurrah, or the Lakers’ last stand,” Windhorst stated on
LeBron James Potentially in Line for 3-Year, $162M Contract With Lakers This OffseasonFirst Take” on February 22. “In fact, I think LeBron is trying to secure a multi-year contract with the Lakers in the upcoming offseason, which will exceed his current deal.”
$51.4 million player option
James has a for the second year of his two-year, $99 million contract next season. He has until June 29 to determine whether he will become a free agent in the upcoming offseason. His next agreement can't exceed three years because of the
NBA’s rule that applies to players over the age of 38 “Whether he can complete that agreement or whether the Lakers are willing to offer him a three-year deal and pay him $60 million at the age of 42, that's a different conversation,” Windhorst commented..
The Lakers can offer James a $162 million contract spanning three years,
according to ESPN’s Bobby Marks and Dave McMenamin Another team can secure the services of the 20-time All-Star with a three-year, $157 million deal. on March 6.
Anthony Davis summed up his thoughts on LeBron James' performance in the Los Angeles Lakers' victory over the Brooklyn Nets with a single word.
