Los Angeles Lakers: What Rajon Rondo injury means for these players

1. LeBron James

One could argue that at age 35, LeBron James is having his best season as a pro, and it is for the same reason he’ll be counted on even more without Rondo.

For the first time in his career, LeBron is averaging double-digit assists. That makes it sound like he hasn’t been a creator all his career, which is obviously not true. LeBron is one of the best players in league history when it comes to elevating the game of his peers. But, in 2019-2020 he’s posting a ridiculous 10.6 assists per game to go with over 25 points.

Making up for those five assists each night, lost from Rondo, is going to take a few players. However, I have zero doubt in my mind that LeBron will pick up the majority of that slack. It may not even come in the form of assists each time down the floor, but he will continue to dominate as the quarterback of this offense.

Back in 2014-2015, LeBron averaged 7.4 assists during the regular season. He upped that number to 8.5 during the playoffs that year.

Let’s not forget, the last time LeBron was in the playoffs two years ago, he averaged a career playoff-high 9.0 assists per game. That was the same number he averaged during that regular season, too. He continues to get better on the big stage as he ages, which is incredible.

He can elevate his game at the drop of a hat, and he’ll do it again this season.