USA Today via Reuters

LeBron James continues to write his own history. Despite being 39 years old, King James will lead a resurgent Los Angeles Lakers side into the postseason as the all-time lead scorer. This would be LeBron’s 17th postseason appearance in the NBA, a feat that places him third in league history. However, despite LeBron’s continuous brilliance, The Ringer (owned by Bill Simmons) has omitted him from their list of the top 10 players in the NBA.

In their recently released rankings, The Ringer listed LeBron as the 12th-best player in the league. They listed James behind the likes of Anthony Davis, Devin Booker, and Kawhi Leonard. As expected, these rankings caused a stir on social media, with many calling out the organization for disrespecting LeBron James and his supreme abilities. Millionaire rapper Cam’ron falls into that category.

During the latest episode of Come and Talk 2 Me, Cam’ron laid into the Ringer for their controversial rankings. He said, “I’m talking Anthony Davis out (of the Top-10) and putting LeBron James on there. Why does Anthony Davis on the Top-10 list ahead of LeBron James? That’s crazy. That’s ridiculous.” His co-host Mase further added by saying, “I wouldn’t have Kawhi (Leonard) above of LeBron… There’s no way that you have Kawhi above LeBron. In fact, I wouldn’t even have Kevin Durant above LeBron if we’re going on this season alone.”

The Ringer’s recent rankings have stirred up quite a debate in the media, as expected due to differing viewpoints. However, their choice to rank LeBron James outside the top 10 has drawn criticism from many within the basketball community. Could King James prove his doubters wrong again?

Can LeBron James lead the Lakers to a deep playoff run?

“I’m on the other side, obviously, of the hill. So I’m not going to play another 21 years, that’s for damn sure. But not very long. I don’t know what or when that door will close as far as when I retire, but I don’t have much time left.” This is what LeBron James said in a recent post-match interview. With the clock running down for James, the 2024 playoffs could very well be his final opportunity to secure his fifth NBA championship.

USA Today via Reuters

The Los Angeles Lakers certainly possess the star power and the talent to be a formidable force in the playoffs. However, inconsistent form and poor injury record have had a detrimental impact on their regular season. The Lakers currently occupy the 9th spot in the Western Conference standings, with two regular season games remaining. Barring an unexpected collapse from teams above them, the Lakers will face the Golden State Warriors in the play-in tournament.

If LeBron James & Co. manage to get the better of the Dubs, there’s a strong chance they’ll face the Denver Nuggets in the opening round of the playoffs. The Lakers have a horrid record against Nikola Jokić and the Nuggets, failing to secure a victory in their last eight encounters. In fact, the Lakers last won a game against Denver back in December 2022. As a result, a deep playoff run looks extremely unlikely for the Lakers. What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments below!