LeBron James Criticizes Condensed NBA Schedule After Kawhi Leonard Injury
“I knew exactly what would happen.”
Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard has reportedly suffered an ACL injury in his right knee ahead of Game 5 versus the Utah Jazz in the NBA Western Conference semifinals. Game 5 is crucial it breaks the current series tie of 2-2, as of writing.
Upon hearing about the injury, LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers offered his support and took the opportunity to express on social media the frustrations he has had with the basketball organization. The four-time MVP took to Twitter to vent about the condensed NBA schedule stating that, “They all didn’t wanna listen to me about the start of the season. I knew exactly what would happen.” He continues, “If there’s one person that know about the body and how it works all year round it’s ME!”
James acknowledges the financial aspect of the game, citing that he “know all about the business side too/factors even try me! I get it.”
Leonard joins a long list of players that include Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving, James Harden, Joel Embiid and Trae Young, who have picked up injuries or missed time during the playoffs. Earlier this month, ESPN shared data that indicated 5.1 players were out per game this season. The figure is the highest since 2009-10 and were only magnified as teh season went on, “This season’s All-Stars missed 370 of a possible 1,944 games (19%), the highest percentage in a season in NBA history, according to Elias Sports Bureau research. They missed an average of 13.7 regular-season games each this year.”
It is unclear how the NBA will respond to the inevitable question regarding players’ health for next year. Check out James’ Tweets below.
🙏🏾 to the 🖐🏾Klaw
— LeBron James (@KingJames) June 16, 2021
They all didn’t wanna listen to me about the start of the season. I knew exactly what would happen. I only wanted to protect the well being of the players which ultimately is the PRODUCT & BENEFIT of OUR GAME! These injuries isn’t just “PART OF THE GAME”. It’s the lack of PURE
— LeBron James (@KingJames) June 16, 2021
works all year round it’s ME! I speak for the health of all our players and I hate to see this many injuries this time of the year. Sorry fans wish you guys were seeing all your fav guys right now. 🙏🏾👑
— LeBron James (@KingJames) June 16, 2021
And I know all about the business side too/factors so don’t even try me! I get it.
— LeBron James (@KingJames) June 16, 2021
In other sports news, Cristiano Ronaldo has set an all-time record for the most goals scored in European Championship history.
