Another LeBron Disappearing Act

Added on Jun 08, 2011 by Scott in

NBA

Just as he did so infamously in last year’s Game 5 loss to the Celtics in the playoffs, LeBron James performed another puzzling disappearing act in last night’s Game 4 loss to the Mavericks, which evened the NBA Finals at 2-2. Eight points on 3-11 shooting, nine rebounds and seven assists aren’t stats that inspire greatness. But the less than impressive numbers only tell part of the story for King James.

The disinterested body language, sour puss gaze and lack of focus is much more problematic than missing a couple jumpers. The unwillingness to aggressively attack the basket, shying away from the ball in crunch time and inability to assert himself with a championship on the line is more disturbing than clanking a free throw.

It’s as if LeBron has purposely faded into the background as the series progresses. His point totals, field goal percentage and three-point percentage have declined in each of the four games. His fourth quarter vanishings are becoming commonplace.

Yielding to big brother Dwyane Wade is one thing, but removing himself from the game both mentally and physically is inexcusable for a player with LeBron’s skill and pedigree. Not when Dirk Nowitzki, battling the flu and a torn finger tendon, is asking for the ball and delivering down the stretch.

All-time greats don’t hang their head in frustration and allow themselves to be non-factors in pressure packed moments. Those foolish enough to compare LeBron to Michael Jordan must have short memories. Jordan never moped or pouted when things weren’t going his way. He never not wanted the ball when his team needed him most. He never avoided taking the big shot with the game on the line. He didn’t always make the big shot, but he never stopped shooting.

Of course, this speaks to the questions that have followed James his entire career. Is he mature enough to lead a team to a title? Can he handle the criticism that comes with superstar status? Does he possess the poise and confidence to be the best player on the floor every night?

Until he proves otherwise, the answers to those questions will be a resounding “no.” Letting Wade do all the dirty work is a cop out. It might be the correct strategy to win a championship, but it does nothing to improve LeBron’s already tarnished legacy.