Lebron James is currently playing in his 15th season and is averaging close 28 points, 9 assist and 9 rebounds per game. Early this season after putting up 57 points on John Wall and the Wizards, James said quote “This is the best I’ve felt in my career right now”. Well if the numbers do not back it up, maybe his consistency will. Lebron James is suiting up to play in game 81 tonight in Madison Square Garden, the last time he played in 81 games was when he was 24 during the 2008-2009 season. However, he has never played all 82 games. With such a momentous occasion on the horizion, this Wednesdays match up against the New York Knicks might be more than just another game. Lebron in his usually fashion, expresses to Dave McMenamin he is worried about one thing at a time.
“We’ll see how tonight goes,” James said Monday morning. “I’ve been telling you that for the last four weeks. So my mindset is focus on tonight, and if I come out healthy, I’ll be available for Wednesday. That’s all that matters for me.”
While Lebron might not appear to be moved by approaching his first complete season, sometimes you have to pay attention to detail. Lebron only a few weeks ago told The Associated Press that he would vote for himself for MVP, and that his “body of work” is a main contributor to the teams success. Playing in all 82 games this season would only give more support to his arugument.
“As James gave his answer, he leaned over in his seat on the baseline at Madison Square Garden and rapped his knuckles against the court, literally knocking on wood. There is history on the line for James.” Dave McMenamin
Beyond Lebron capturing his first complete season, he is also on the verge of another piece of history. If the Cavaliers win tonight they will clinch the Central Division title over the Indiana Pacers. For the King, this would be his 10th straight division title. He won two with Cavs from 2009-2010, then four straight with the Miami Heat, and this would be another four straight with the Cavaliers. A feat that has never been accomplished by any player, in the history of the NBA. Lebron of course, was not to impressed.
“That’s pretty cool,” James said when informed of the milestone. “I had no idea about that, but that’s pretty cool. To be able to be in a position where you kind of control a division, that’s a pretty unique thing to me. I definitely didn’t know that.”
Altering basketball history has become somewhat normal for Lebron, but winning the MVP is not. He has won 4 MVP awards in his 15 year career, but receiving his 5th this year would have to be the most impressive of them all.