LeBron James averages 38 minutes per game over his career but played just 29 in Tuesday night’s opening night loss to the Denver Nuggets.
Usually, it would not come as a surprise that a 38-year-old player is starting to play less than he used to. But considering James is the most ageless superstar the sport has ever seen, his limited minutes were a topic of conversation after the game.
It wasn’t long before LeBron was asked about the matter during his postgame media availability.
“I always want to be on the floor, especially when you got an opportunity to win a game,” he told reporters.
“I guess there’s a system in place and I’m going to follow it.”
James then clarified that he wasn’t surprised or upset by his playing time.
When asked if LeBron playing about 29 minutes per game could be the new normal this season, Lakers head coach Darvin Ham said, “In all likelihood, yes.”