LeBron James’ body has taken a beating over the years. After a record 23 seasons in the NBA, he has absorbed many bumps and bruises, not to mention some ailments, and he may be just starting to show the first signs of wear and tear in terms of his production and ability.
He was able to average 23.2 points a game in the playoffs this year after registering 20.9 points a game in the regular season, and he may not be able to sustain truly elite play as much as he could just a few years ago. After seeming indestructible during his first 15 seasons, he has had his share of injuries during his eight seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, but right now, he is fairly healthy, and he isn’t rehabbing any injuries as his offseason begins.
That is the message he sent during a recent episode of his “Mind the Game” podcast, and he sounded thankful that he’s not nursing an injury.
“Just been chilling, man,” James said when asked how his offseason is going. “Just taking the whole season in and getting the opportunity to recover. I had a couple bumps and bruises to end the season, but I think we both can agree that an offseason without rehab is a success after a long season, so I’ll take it.”
Last offseason, James was dealing with a sprained MCL he reportedly suffered during the Lakers’ final playoff game versus the Minnesota Timberwolves. Two years before that, he had suffered a foot injury late in the regular season, and while he returned in time for the playoffs, he seemed a bit compromised afterward.
He missed the first 14 games of this season due to sciatica, but he showed no lingering effects after returning to action. Now, James will turn his attention to deciding what’s next for his basketball career, as he’s about to become a free agent.
This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: LeBron James is thankful he isn’t rehabbing this offseason
Reporting by Robert Marvi, LeBron Wire / LeBron Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
