LeBron James, Frank Vogel Hint at Load Management

The 2020-21 NBA season will start really soon and basketball players are more than ready to accept the challenge. The Los Angeles Lakers won the title in Orlando. LeBron James won his fourth ring, and he will turn 36 later this month. But, that’s not really a problem for the king. The four-time NBA champion played his best basketball inside the NBA bubble. Lakers players are in the middle of training camp and they will meet their city rivals on Friday for the pre-season opener. LeBron and Anthony Davis are expected to skip this game. Lakers head coach Frank Vogel will have to take care of the superstars, and he prioritizes load management.

Load management has been a common topic in the past few years. Teams have to protect their players, and LeBron will trust his coaches when it comes to getting proper rest.

“I’ve always listened to my coaches,” the four-time NBA champion said. “We had the same thing last year when the coaching staff got here. We’re going to be as smart as we can be on making sure my body and I’m ready. Obviously every game matters. We’re competing for something that’s high, so we don’t ever want to shortchange our stuff.

“For me personally, it’s always a fine line. Understanding with the shortened offseason — I think 71 days, the shortest offseason for any professional sport ever — so we’re very conscientious about what we do going forward.”

Frank Vogel and LeBron discussed load management

Head coach Vogel and LeBron have already discussed the topic. He will rely on LeBron’s condition throughout the season. They will evaluate each day and won’t lock into any plan.

Vogel will do his best to make sure his players are healthy and prepared for the season.

“There’s no doubt the goal every year — but in particular this year — is to make sure we’re healthy and whole going into the playoffs,” he said.

“That’s not to say we’re going to take the regular season lightly in any way. The guys that are on the floor are going to compete. We created the identity of playing harder than our opponent every night, but our goal is definitely to make sure we’re healthy come playoff time.”