Los Angeles Lakers superstar forward LeBron James says it’s up to this year’s Lakers squad to represent Kobe Bryant the proper way.
As expected, James didn’t want to talk about Bryant too much on Saturday at All-Star media day since it’s still such an emotional topic:
The passing of Bryant is going to take a long, long time to get over. The Lakers players were very emotional against the Portland Trail Blazers at Staples Center during LA’s tribute to Kobe. Both James and Anthony Davis were crying.
Los Angeles has the best record in the Western Conference. However, nothing would make this season more special than to see LeBron James and Davis lead the Lakers to banner No. 17 for Kobe Bryant. Both players were very close with Bryant and his passing will certainly motivate the two to win it all this year.
The Lakers retired Bryant’s No. 8 and 24 jerseys last year. Now, the late NBA legend is set to be a first-ballot Hall of Famer as part of an incredible class this 2020.
LeBron James to become second all-time in All-Star games played
Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James is currently first in six statistical categories for All-Star game history, and on Sunday night, he will be a step closer to becoming first for another one.
A 16-time All-Star, James will play in his 16th All-Star game at the United Center in Chicago. According to ESPN Stats & Info, James will take sole possession of second place for All-Star games played, trailing only Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who played 18 in his Hall of Fame career.
James will pass Tim Duncan and the late Kobe Bryant for second on the list. Both Duncan and Bryant have been named as finalists for the 2020 Hall of Fame class, per ESPN’s Tim Bontemps.
The All-Star game will tip off at 8 p.m. EST, and it will be televised on TNT.
A three-time All-Star game MVP, James has averaged 24.1 points per game and 5.9 assists in the midseason exhibition match. He is also the game’s all-time leader in points, 3-pointers made and field goals made.
