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[Saba Sports News] Early in LeBron James’ career, he was often labeled a ‘choker,’ criticized for passing to the open man in clutch moments instead of taking the shot himself. However, the Los Angeles Lakers star has consistently proven his critics wrong, delivering time and again in crucial situations. James has hit numerous game-winners, showcasing his calm under pressure and well-rounded scoring ability from all areas of the court.
During an appearance on The Shop, LeBron explained his approach in these high-pressure moments. “What’s going on in my head? Like you said, it’s in slow motion. I slow it down as well. It’s about being patient, not over-exerting or pre-determining my move. I just read and react. Even with the clock ticking down—9, 8, 7, 6—while it seems fast on a stopwatch, on the court, it actually slows down for me. I can see the floor clearly,” James shared.
Despite his unique ability to slow down the game in crunch time, LeBron acknowledges that success isn’t guaranteed. “Will it always result in a make? No, I wish. But I try to put myself in the best position to make the right play or deliver for the team every time. Experience is the best teacher, and the more you’re in those moments, the better you get,” he added.
The notion that LeBron isn’t clutch is absurd, given his track record of clutch performances. Who could forget his go-ahead triple in the 2020 play-in game against the Warriors, or his near-heroics in Game 2 of the 2024 first-round series against the Nuggets?
As the Lakers look to contend for another championship, LeBron may need to dig deep once more. At nearly 40 years old, it’s a tall order, but if anyone can defy the odds, it’s The King.