What was expected to be a fun and harmless appearance on ESPN's "Pat McAfee Show" by Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James, ended up being an interview that saw the four-time NBA champion go off on multiple ESPN personalities.
James blasted "First Take" host Stephen A. Smith, who had previously criticized James as a father for putting his oldest son, Bronny James, into a tough spot with the Lakers. Smith wasn't the only ESPN talent that caught some heat, as James also highlighted the fact that he felt insider Brian Windhorst pretends that the two are best of friends. A sentiment that James did not seem to share.
While Smith took everything James said personally and retaliated on his show, Windhorst has been quite cordial about the matter. In fact, he has carried on with a business-as-usual sort of energy.
For him, business entails discussing all things related to James, which he did again on Tuesday when he expressed his concerns about the Lakers star ahead of the playoffs.
"You're worried about overuse," Windhorst said. "The thing about it is the Lakers depth isn't tremendous...It's hard to take LeBron out of games when it's an important game. Coaches for 20 years have said that. Last night was a very important game, LeBron almost played 40 minutes. It's a hard thing to do for JJ Redick, but if he breaks down, they don't have a chance anyway so they're going to have to ride him."
James missed seven straight games in March due to a strained left groin. While he appears to be superhuman at times, he is still 40 years old and may not be able to push through as he has in years past.
With seven games left in the season and there no room to breathe in the standings, the Lakers may just have to hope and pray his groin holds up.
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This story was originally published April 1, 2025 at 4:03 PM.