JJ Redick cracks hilarious $1 billion joke on LeBron James after another 40-point showdown against Portland Trail Blazers

LeBron James, at age 40, led the Los Angeles Lakers to a 121-112 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers with a remarkable 40-point performance. Head coach JJ Redick praised James’ unmatched work ethic and continued excellence, especially after surpassing Vince Carter on the NBA’s all-time games played list.

Los Angeles Lakers have seemingly bounced back as they have secured a stunning win against the Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday night. At 40 years old, on the second night of a back-to-back, the four-time NBA champion, LeBron James delivered a jaw-dropping 40-point performance to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 121-112 win over the Portland Trail Blazers. His efforts left Lakers head coach JJ Redickboth stunned and inspired, as he showered James with praise following the game.

LeBron James and JJ Redick. Image via: Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images

LeBron James has recently dealt with lingering injuries and only confirmed fit to play hours before tipoff but showed no signs of slowing down. He shot an efficient 14-for-24 from the field, including 4-of-8 from beyond the arc, and added eight rebounds and four assists.

Head coach JJ Redick, who has always been a vocal admirer of James’ work ethic and longevity, couldn’t hold back his admiration for the legend. Speaking to reporters in a post-game presser, he shared his honest thoughts on the King’s astonishing performance.

“He really just defies anything that’s normal, and not just the physical feats and the plays—it’s the mentality,” Redick said. “He is—I believe I saw the other day he’s a billionaire—and he’s playing on the second night of a back-to-back at 40 after 22 years with every record and every accolade.”

Redick continued his witty remark, “And the kids will say that I’m glazing him. He’s one of the greatest competitors. [Assistant coach] Nate [McMillan] and I were talking before the game—he’s amazing to coach. He brings it every single day, he sets the standard for how you’re supposed to approach this craft. That’s to me the most incredible thing—the mindset to do it, get up the next day, do it, over and over again.”

James’ ability to maintain this level of excellence post-40 has been undeniably top of the word, according to fan analysts. For two decades, he has maintained his stature as a standout star and forged his legacy with a stunning resume to his name.

Additionally, James has just added another milestone in his career. By playing his 1,542nd game, he passed Vince Carter to claim third place on the NBA’s all-time games played list. Now, only Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (1,560) and Robert Parish (1,611) stand ahead of him. The 1 billion-rich athlete (per Forbes) is currently averaging 24.7 points per game, 7.7 rebounds, and 8.9 assists. James also holds the youngest and oldest NBA star to score 40 points in a game.

Also Read: Los Angeles Lakers legend LeBron James creates another milestone surpassing Vince Carter

A huge part of the Lakers’ success against Portland also came from Austin Reaves in the recent game against the Trail Blazers. Reaves delivered a stellar performance of his own, finishing with 32 points on 9-for-21 shooting.

With this victory, the Lakers improved to 33-21 on the season, now sitting firmly in fifth place in the Western Conference.

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