Changes in sports are constant and necessary, and the NBA is no exception. LeBron James, now in his 23rd season, has observed a particularly striking evolution that has made offensive power more prominent across the league.
Sitting alongside league legend Steve Nash on the Mind the Game podcast, James discussed a trend that has intensified in recent years, one that benefits players at every position.
Both stars pointed out that offensive rebounds have become increasingly common, creating more scoring opportunities for everyone on the floor, regardless of their role or size.
I didn’t notice the numbers, but you can definitely see more teams crashing the boards to get extra possessions.”… “I think it’s because of how many threes are being taken now. With that many long shots, you’re going to get a lot of long rebounds and a lot of misses.
Said LeBron James
LeBron added that in today’s game, it is no longer just the big men who fight for rebounds. Every player on the court now has a chance to secure those possessions, which adds greater excitement to the sport.
James continued.
You can feel it on the court. If you’re not checking your man when the shot goes up, you’re in trouble.”… “It used to be just the bigs, maybe a few forwards, going after those boards. Now you’ve got point guards flying in, shooting guards crashing too. Everybody is going after them.
An exponential rise in the NBA’s rebounding percentage
According to the two former MVP winners, the league’s overall rebounding percentage has reportedly increased from 22% to 27%. With teams relying more heavily on three-point shooting, this shift has become a critical part of modern NBA strategy.
Because of this trend, franchises are expected to continue emphasizing offensive rebounding as the season progresses, a season that still has a long stretch ahead.
LeBron James appreciates Austin Reaves’ contributions
The Los Angeles Lakers have delivered an impressive run so far, holding a 17-6 record that places them second in the Western Conference. And even though James has missed several games, Austin Reaves has taken on an unexpected yet highly productive role within the lineup.
I just think AR has picked up exactly where he left off.”… “The confidence of knowing his role is going to keep expanding, more usage, more responsibility. He’s not just one of the guys anymore; he’s one of the guys on our team, and he wants that responsibility.
James said.
Reaves is currently averaging 28.4 points and 6.7 assists per game, establishing himself as a key contributor for the Lakers. Despite claims that his prominence would diminish once James returned, Reaves has continued to shine in every matchup.
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