Lakers: Rob Pelinka’s update on LeBron James should scare the NBA

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James could be even better in 2021 with this game-changing physical development for the 36-year old.

While athletes are usually lauded for Herculean strength, many positions benefit from nimbler, leaner players — including power forwards.

That’s why Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James committed himself to losing weight this summer in advance of the 2021 season. A leaner LeBron is expected to translate to “more explosiveness” on court, according to Dave McMenamin.

Lakers LeBron James slims down to prepare for 19th NBA season

This isn’t the first time that King James has embarked on a weight loss journey to boost his performance. In 2014, James spent 67 days on a modified keto diet, which cut out sugar, dairy and carbs. Instead, James opted for fresh fruits and vegetables as well as lean proteins like meat and fish.

Describing it as a “mental challenge”, the then-29-year-old posted Instagram photos of his shocking weight loss before the 2014 season, a season in which he brought the Cleveland Cavaliers to the NBA Finals.

While this year’s weight loss isn’t being described as being that dramatic, it’s important for power forwards like James to stay slim to reduce the impact repeated jumping has on his knees. New Orleans Pelican power forward Zion Williamson has been experiencing such issues since his days at Duke, which ended up restricting what should have been a breakout rookie season to just 24 disappointing games. Last year, Williamson changed his diet and exercise regimen to improve his flexibility and stay on the court.

If James can stay lean and improve his pliability, he just may stay on the court as long as 44-year-old Tom Brady, who has apparently inspired a complete revamp of the Lakers nutrition and exercise program.