After the Los Angeles Lakers' recent loss to the Boston Celtics, Colin Cowherd didn't hold back his opinions on the team during "The Colin Cowherd Podcast." While he praised Lakers' superstar LeBron James, his critique of Luka Doncic was less forgiving.
Cowherd lauded LeBron for his relentless effort, even as he's slowed down at 39. He compared LeBron's dedication to legends like Kobe and MJ, noting they never lacked focus or commitment, even on off shooting nights. LeBron, according to Cowherd, remains a "weight room warrior," extending his career through hard work.
In contrast, Cowherd criticized Doncic for his on-court demeanor, particularly his tendency to argue with referees instead of hustling back on defense. He suggested that Doncic, at 27, is becoming more of an academic player than an athletic one.
Breaking Down Luka Doncic vs. LeBron James
Let's dive into the stats. Cowherd's claim that Doncic is slowing down doesn't quite hold water.
Comparing Doncic's current numbers to James' 2011-12 season, when James was 27, reveals some interesting parallels. James averaged 27.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 6.2 assists on 53.1% shooting.
Meanwhile, Doncic is posting 32.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.6 assists on 46.8% shooting. In some areas, Doncic even edges out James.
Cowherd's point about Doncic's interactions with referees isn't unique to him. Both Doncic and James have been known to engage with officials, sometimes at the expense of getting back on defense.
They also share a flair for dramatics, often exaggerating contact to draw fouls. It's a tactic as much as a trait, aimed at giving their teams an edge.
Is Cowherd Biased Toward LeBron?
Cowherd's admiration for LeBron is well-documented. He's defended LeBron's Finals record, attributing early losses to weaker rosters, and often places LeBron in the GOAT conversation due to his passing, longevity, and versatility.
While Cowherd's observations about Doncic have merit, his critique seems uneven when compared to his praise for LeBron. Both players exhibit similar on-court behaviors, yet Cowherd's analysis appears to hinge on the jersey rather than the actions. It's a reminder that even the most seasoned analysts can have their favorites, and sometimes, those biases peek through.