The Los Angeles Lakers are in need of players to help them get closer to the league’s elite teams, thus this summer will be crucial for them.
The Lakers were able to find their offensive groove in 2023–24, but their defense was mediocre at best. Even though Anthony Davis had a fantastic season, Los Angeles had trouble stopping the opposition, particularly while playing the Denver Nuggets in the postseason.
Throughout his career, LeBron James has faced almost every type of defense and engaged in a good number of postseason confrontations with players. James listed Stanley Johnson as one of the more underappreciated defenders he faced during their 2018 playoff series on the JJ Redick podcast “Mind the Game”:
In 2018, Johnson—a former lottery selection—became recognized as a tough defensive end who could cover positions 1-4 and compete with James, who was still very much at the top of his game. After Johnson had defended James in the past, one of the greatest players of all time gave him some respect. The two went on to become teammates in Los Angeles.
Given that Johnson has had difficulty staying in the league in recent years, perhaps this endorsement from a prominent figure like James would help him secure employment this summer.
LeBron James of the Lakers receives a standing ovation while watching the Cavaliers-Celtics game. After helping the team win its first championship, James will always be adored in Cleveland. James received a standing ovation from the audience and a tribute video from the Cavaliers during their recent Game 4 matchup against the Boston Celtics, which he watched from courtside.
