Skip Bayless, who’s often critical of LeBron James, has had some positive things to say about the Lakers superstar on occasion. Recently, he praised James for his aggressive play in a close game against the Warriors, where James confidently sank crucial free throws after driving hard to the basket.
Bayless, known for scrutinizing James’ decisions in clutch moments, acknowledged James’ fearlessness in this particular game. Despite facing a critical possession after a Warriors’ 3-pointer, James, showing no signs of fatigue after playing 48 minutes, attacked the rim and drew a foul from Draymond Green. He calmly converted both free throws, securing a hard-fought victory for the Lakers.
YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS, LEBRON. ATTAWAY. DO WHAT YOU DO GREATEST. DRIVE IT AND HAVE THE GUTS TO GO MAKE THE FREE THROWS. YOU FINALLY MADE ‘EM BOTH. ONE WOULD’VE BEEN FINE.
— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) January 28, 2024
James’ performance was stellar, with 36 points, 20 rebounds (a career-high), and 12 assists. This remarkable feat marked the first time a Lakers player achieved a 30-20-10 game since Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in the 1975-76 season.
LeBron James tonight:
36 points
14/25 FG
6/6 FT
20 rebounds
12 assists
48 minutes pic.twitter.com/yV1j1pMdyt— Lakers Daily (@LakersDailyCom) January 28, 2024
The game was an epic showdown between James and Stephen Curry, with Curry contributing 46 points, including 15 in overtime. This clash between the two NBA icons, known for their historic Finals battles, set the stage for future matchups as the Lakers and Warriors meet four times in the regular season.
Importantly for the Lakers, the victory kept them in the No. 9 spot in the Western Conference, maintaining their playoff hopes with a 24-23 record. It also kickstarted a crucial six-game road trip, with upcoming matchups against the Houston Rockets and Eastern Conference opponents.
