The Los Angeles Lakers' sweep at the hands of the Denver Nuggets has ended the Lakers' magical postseason adventure. But did Denver's victory also end LeBron James' career? Here are all the details.
The Final Sweep
The victory in Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals by the Nuggets, 113-111 by the Nuggets, 113-111, ended a season full of ups and downs for the Hollywood team. After a dismal start (2-10), no one expected the Lakers to bounce back and reach the postseason.
After a difficult regular season, the Lakers managed to qualify for the playoffs. They then eliminated one opponent at a time until running into the stronghold that is Denver. While some expected another miracle from LeBron James and company, it did not come. Denver was clearly the better team. Nikola Jokic and his supporting cast showed why they finished first in the conference.
Now, Denver awaits the outcome of the series between Miami and Boston. Regardless of who wins, it will be a finale full of emotions and expectations. For the Lakers, the offseason begins with a notable unknown, "Will it be the end of LeBron"?
A Notable Absence
James, who has previously mentioned the possibility of retirement, was absent from the Lakers' final day of post playoff elimination activities. The 38-year-old star has expressed his desire to retire from the NBA.
After more than 1,400 professional games in the NBA, it seems injuries have finally taken their toll on LeBron's body. The 20 seasons with Cleveland, Miami and Los Angeles have left their mark, considering his last full season was in 2017-2018.
James' absence in the Lakers' dressing room seems like a gift from the club to its superstar. They will give James all the space he needs while he makes a final decision. He goes or he stays. Whatever the decision Lakers management will not rush their decision.
The Nuggets made history last night by qualifying for their first NBA Finals after sweeping LeBron James' Lakers, but have you wondered how this great team was built?
Follow the thread and I'll tell you about it. pic.twitter.com/CEFcwDQ8DN
- Dunk N'Out (@Dunkn_Out) May 23, 2023
Life After LeBron
Life after LeBron will take a very different turn for Los Angeles. First, the Lakers will need to find a replacement who can consistently score between 25 and 30 points per game. These types of players are in short supply. The ones that are, don't come cheap.
On the other hand, the Lakers will need to find a cast that can absorb the absence of James' leadership. Meanwhile, the presence of veteran players will be crucial to the Lakers' future. Perhaps the interaction between young and veteran players can compensate for the loss of LeBron.
It is worth mentioning that everything points to the Lakers entering a rebuilding phase. If so, Lakers fans should prepare themselves for some tough years, something along the lines of what has happened to the San Antonio Spurs. Perhaps another transcendental player will come along who can lead the Lakers to a new era of glory.