Charles Barkley Sends Warning to LeBron James, Lakers for Playoffs
LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers hold a 3-1 lead over the Houston Rockets in their playoff series despite missing key players Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Charles Barkley warned that the Lakers must win Game 5, as LeBron's performance has shown signs of decline due to fatigue. With Kevin Durant sidelined for Houston, Barkley emphasized that a loss could force a Game 7 and increase strain on the aging superstar.
- ▪The Los Angeles Lakers have a 3-1 series lead over the Houston Rockets in the playoffs despite missing Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
- ▪Charles Barkley stated that Game 5 is a 'must-win' for the Lakers, warning that LeBron James appears fatigued and his performance is declining.
- ▪LeBron scored only 10 points on 2-for-9 shooting in Game 4, a drop from his previous games, due in part to increased offensive responsibility.
- ▪Austin Reaves is a game-time decision and could return to help alleviate pressure on LeBron if the series continues.
- ▪The Oklahoma City Thunder await the Lakers in the next round after sweeping the Phoenix Suns 4-0.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
By Matthew CoudenContributing WriterShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberSee more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers were underdogs heading into their first-round playoff series against Kevin Durant and the Houston Rockets. Still, they quickly emerged as favorites after taking control of the series.That was extremely significant, given that Los Angeles was without two of its key starters: Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Both players suffered season-ending injuries, although Reaves is expected to return much sooner than Doncic.Heading into Wednesday night's home game, they held a 3-1 series lead with a chance to put away the Rockets.
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