By Antigoni Zachari / info@eurohoops.net
The big showdown of the 2019-20 season between Bucks and Lakers on Thursday brings Giannis Antetokounmpo and LeBron James into the spotlight. The Greek Freak described LeBron James as “an alien” because of his ability to dominate the league in his mid-30s.
James (soon-to-turn 35) is posting an average of 25.9 points, 10.6 assists and 7.4 rebounds per game this season (his 17th) and the Lakers have a matching 24-4 record with the Bucks.
Giannis aspires to have the same impact when he reaches LeBron’s age.
“It’s crazy. Obviously, for me, that’s one of my goals to be able to play at a high level for the next 10 years, but he’s about to turn 35 this month and he’s moving like that, playing like that, and just playing smart,” the Greek Freak told reporters on Wednesday. “It’s insane to see what he’s able to do, but he’s LeBron James.
“He’s different. He’s an alien. So you expect it from him, but yeah, it’s crazy”, Giannis added.
Antetokounmpo, last regular season’s MVP, is averaging 31.7 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 5.3 assists in 31.2 minutes per game this season. Looking at LeBron’s age-25 stats (29.7 points, 8.6 assists, 7.3 rebounds, in 39 minutes per game), we can say that Giannis has outnumbered him with far fewer minutes on the court. However, the important factor to keep in mind in the comparison of the two players is James’ durability over time. Giannis wasn’t exaggerating in his statement; he is an alien.
The game has changed so much in recent years, yet LeBron remains as impressive as he was at 25, if anything, now more experienced and catalytic for his team.
Of course, in both cases, the things they’ve done (each one in his era) are undeniably impressive. This Thursday match-up, their first big clash of the season will show if Giannis’ MVP reign will continue in the chase of a back-to-back MVP honor, or if “alien” LeBron and the Lakers will rise with their 25th victory of the season.