Cleveland Cavaliers: 5 Takeaways From Media Day 2016-17
4. LeBron James Is Looking To Be Even Better
LeBron James is already in midseason form.
He mentioned how he didn’t have a summer, and how winning the championship still hasn’t sunk in. The reason?
He worked out and trained while just taking two days off after winning it all. It goes without saying that James always looks to improve his skills, and to become a better player, but this time, it’s about his teammates being able to handle the success of a championship.
James mentioned how they must realize it’s not going to be easy to repeat, and that they have to play with the same “hunters” mindset as they did last season. Mastering the basic fundamentals and having championship habits was also something he stressed.
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However, the most important question he was asked was on Smith. Since Smith opted out of his current contract, James has been his biggest supporter.
He’s been seen at the end of videos on Instagram or most recently on Uninterrupted by Bleacher Report saying “J.R., what up with you boy?!,” basically telling him to hurry up and get a deal done.
Most fans forget that Smith was the whole reason “the block” happened. He had to get Andre Iguodala to change directions within that second in order for James to glide in and make one of the biggest blocks in NBA history.
His minutes are going to be cut down significantly this season. I can even see James not playing for 2-3 games just for rest.
Championship teams go about things differently than contending ones.
While those teams are worried about performing strongly as a unit on a nightly basis, the top teams are more concerned about being healthy going into the postseason and maintaining the health of all the players.
It’s why teams such as the San Antonio Spurs have been successful. Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Kawhi Leonard didn’t play every night, they got rest, and that model has helped get the Spurs to numerous championships. It also strengthened the bench to get used to going against starters.
Just like last season, James playing less games will only benefit the Cavaliers in the playoffs. Some fans might not like it, but it’s for the bigger picture, which is another championship.