The five-time champion’s bold prediction about LeBron James comes with an important caveat: “King James is far from weakened, but this 38-year-old man..

King James is far from waning. But the 38-year-old needs a break now and then. Unfortunately, that makes Los Angeles Lakers fans and even some former stars anxious. Someone who won his five titles alongside Kobe Bryant knows what it’s like without your powerhouse on the court. This champion sees the stats are in favor of the purple and gold when they have their star playing. But he also acknowledges the limitations this role comes with.

Without the injured James, the Lakers managed to win 116-110 over the Portland Trailblazers. They just made an NBA legend’s case to prove that they can pull through where it matters.

Lakers legend hopes for LeBron James’ longevity

As LeBron James was absent from the latest Lakers game against the Trailblazers, things might have seemed a little bleak. He’s recovering from a calf contusion, and his absence was understandable. Regardless, fans and analysts are in awe that he’s able to lead the team to wins while recording spectacular stats.

Derek Fisher, who had the best years of his NBA career in purple and gold, said on the Lakers’ pregame show on Spectrum SportsNet, “He’s clearly rewriting the history books. You just have to chuckle that some of the things he has done at his ‘advanced age’. But also all the things that he will continue to do as long as he stays… can remain healthy.”

Since turning 38 last December, James has got 16 games of 30 points or more in the regular season. This, understandably, left Fisher impressed. He hopes that the record gets extended as long as James stays in shape for it.

During the game against the Phoenix Suns, James collided with Kevin Durant in the quarter. He suffered an injury to his calf in that tumble. Following that, the team announced that James would sit out the game against Portland.

In his absence, the Lakers were able to overcome the Blazers and win 116-110. According to Coach Darvin Ham, the team needed the opportunity. And even Fisher agrees that it’s time for the Lakers roster to ease the dependency on LeBron.

While Fisher wants James to stay healthy and break more records, he also had differing expectations for his team. “This is a game the Lakers are still well-positioned to win,” he said about the matchup against Portland. Adding that it’s usually difficult to win a home game after a long road trip, he said, “This is hopefully where the depth of the Lakers will come into play.” And it sure did as 6 different players scored in double figures, with AD leading the way with 30 points.

LeBron James’ athleticism has been a subject of awe among NBA pros for a long time. Mike Bibby called him “superhuman” based on their time together in Miami. Fisher also had similar commentary about James’ mental tenacity to stay in the game and show phenomenal athleticism.

But as Fisher said, Ham is trying to make the Lakers sustainable in the long run with or without LeBron James. Do you see the strategy working?