LeBron James to the Lakers
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Michael Beasley would beat LeBron James in one-on-one on the Heat
Bryan Kalbrosky
The Los Angeles Lakers signed Michael Beasley, who will join LeBron James for the second time in his professional career.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reported that James “respected” Beasley’s talent, which makes sense. Beasley averaged 21.3 points and 9.0 rebounds per 36 minutes last season while shooting nearly 40.0 percent from downtown.
Beasley has no shortage of confidence, considering he told Bleacher Report that his talent matches up well with players like James and Kevin Durant. While that sounds crazy, Durant told the New York Post that he was “feeling him” on that.
Tom Haberstroh, who used to cover the Heat, discussed how the two would match up when they used to play against each other (via Back To Back):
“Legit, in practice in Miami, I would watch these practices where LeBron and Michael Beasley would go at it — like one-on-one. And Beasley would beat him every time. He’s so good!”
The problem was never a lack of talent for the former No. 2 overall pick. In an article published in 2014, Boston Globe’s Gary Washburn reported that James “was not pleased” with Beasley’s lack of focus.
(interview below)
It’s been four years since then, however, and Beasley has assuredly matured into an NBA veteran. When he spoke to HoopsHype last season, Beasley said that he still talks to James to “bounce certain situations off [him]” and that the four-time MVP has helped him a ton in his career.
Even if he does not receive a tremendous amount of playing time with the Lakers, it will be a fascinating situation for the 29-year-old forward. Expect him to step into his role and bring some necessary scoring to the bench unit for Los Angeles.
And as if the idea of Beasley and James playing together isn’t fun enough, we also may get another video like this:
Bryan Kalbrosky
The Los Angeles Lakers signed Michael Beasley, who will join LeBron James for the second time in his professional career.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reported that James “respected” Beasley’s talent, which makes sense. Beasley averaged 21.3 points and 9.0 rebounds per 36 minutes last season while shooting nearly 40.0 percent from downtown.
Beasley has no shortage of confidence, considering he told Bleacher Report that his talent matches up well with players like James and Kevin Durant. While that sounds crazy, Durant told the New York Post that he was “feeling him” on that.
Tom Haberstroh, who used to cover the Heat, discussed how the two would match up when they used to play against each other (via Back To Back):
“Legit, in practice in Miami, I would watch these practices where LeBron and Michael Beasley would go at it — like one-on-one. And Beasley would beat him every time. He’s so good!”
The problem was never a lack of talent for the former No. 2 overall pick. In an article published in 2014, Boston Globe’s Gary Washburn reported that James “was not pleased” with Beasley’s lack of focus.
(interview below)
It’s been four years since then, however, and Beasley has assuredly matured into an NBA veteran. When he spoke to HoopsHype last season, Beasley said that he still talks to James to “bounce certain situations off [him]” and that the four-time MVP has helped him a ton in his career.
Even if he does not receive a tremendous amount of playing time with the Lakers, it will be a fascinating situation for the 29-year-old forward. Expect him to step into his role and bring some necessary scoring to the bench unit for Los Angeles.
And as if the idea of Beasley and James playing together isn’t fun enough, we also may get another video like this:
Michael Beasley: "It feels great to be able to be yourself and be accepted"
Bryan Kalbrosky
New York Knicks forward Michael Beasley, 29, has become one of the most important players on his team. He has been a very good isolation and post-up scorer, and he’s done a phenomenal job of showing he was a valuable addition.
He recently spoke with HoopsHype about his basketball journey, which has taken him through eight teams in the NBA and China.
You have a fairly young team in New York and you’re a veteran for these players. What kind of role have you taken with the Knicks?
Michael Beasley: It’s a lead-by-example situation. I talk a lot about what I’ve been through and try to get them to do the right things early. I want to make sure they learn the right habits at the start of their career just to make it a little easier. Until this year, I’d never been a veteran before. I’d never been with this many young guys. They’re teaching me a lot about being a leader and about being vocal. I’m one of the older guys and one of the guys that they look up to on the team. I try to teach them the right habits and how to handle certain situations both on and off the court.
Who are some of the veterans who mentored you earlier in your career? Are you using their lessons?
MB: Someone that I can always call is Udonis Haslem, no matter what I’m going through and no matter where I am in the world. He’s always going to pick up or call back shortly after. It’s the same thing with guys like Mike James and Dwyane Wade. I’ve learned from some great guys. I got really close with Ray Allen and LeBron James, too. I’ve been fortunate to play with some great guys and I’m double blessed to become friends with them.
Is there a player in the league that you want to model yourself after, like how you want guys around the NBA to look at you?
MB: [Laughs] LeBron James.
(Photo by David Liam Kyle/NBAE via Getty Images)
I like that answer. What was it like playing with LeBron on the Heat?
MB: It was a learning experience. People don’t always talk about how good of a person he is and how cognitive he is about things you are interested in, too. He’s definitely one of the guys that can change your life, just being around him. It was fun. I got to learn a lot on the court in terms of work ethic and as far as how he sees the game. It was one of the best years of my life. He’s one of the guys that I’ve used to bounce certain situations off and he’s helped me a ton in my career. He’s just as normal as they come. He’s probably the most humble guy I know.
Now that you’re in New York, this is a totally different market. How have you felt about the way the city has embraced you?
MB: Honestly, I couldn’t ask for anything better. For the city and fans to embrace not only the way I play but who I am as much as they did – it feels great to be able to be yourself and be accepted. I thank the city forever for that. It’s unfortunate we couldn’t win as much as we wanted to this year.
You’ve been used in a lot of one-on-one opportunities for the Knicks. Has that trust in isolation been discussed with your coaches?
MB: I think Jeff Hornaceck trusts me more than I trust myself, if that’s possible. Especially with Kristaps Porzingis going down and Tim Hardaway Jr. going down with injuries earlier this season, we needed someone to score and we needed someone to carry the load. We all want to be that guy and to be the superstar. I was a tad bit nervous when it was time for me to step up but Jeff and coach Kurt Rambisand a few of my teammates did a great job to help show me who I am. It feels good to be put in that position.
New York has also allowed you to play more on the ball than as a spot-up shooter. Is this something you can bring to your next contract too?
MB: I think the most overlooked part of my game is that I can make plays for other people. I can score and that’s fun. But for me, the game gets fun if and when I can make other people better. I would definitely like more chances to be a playmaker and put them in the position to be great. That’s what helps people win.
A lot of players who go to China now look at you as an example of someone who made it back and is now playing at a high level in the NBA. What did you learn while you were out there?
MB: I learned how to take things one day at a time. I learned how to live in the moment and learned how to play basketball the right way. I learned how to make individuals better. Above all us, I learned the value in solitude. A lot of us, not just basketball players but people, are afraid to be alone. I was one of those people and that experience in China helped me grow up. It was a big part of my maturation process. The more you notice your surroundings, the less you think about things you want to avoid. For me at the time, that was the NBA. I really wanted to get back home. The first six weeks, I would go nights or even a week without sleeping because it was on my mind so much. I had to accept my situation and take it as it came.
Players like DeMar DeRozan and Kevin Love have talked about that anxiety. Do you think that has helped others be more open with their own struggles?
MB: Hats off to those guys, man. More people than you think go through that. I go through it. It took me a while to realize it because we’re raised to believe that it’s an embarrassing thing. It’s definitely inspiring for them to be honest about what they are experiencing. They opened up the floodgates, they opened up the doors, for the next great NBA player or even the next great scientist. The next shy kid with anxiety can break out of their shell because of this.
What are some goals you’re hoping to accomplish in the league and off the court?
MB: I want to play basketball the wholesome way. I’ve been in this game for 10 years professionally. It’s all I want. I want the chance to play at a high level and win championships. I don’t want to set goals or limitations. I know once I’ve gotten the chance, everything else will come with it. And off the court, the only thing I worry about is my kids growing up healthy and knowing that they’re loved. If my family is fine and my kids are taken care of, that’s all I want. I’m a real simple guy.
(Photo by Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images)
I watched your interview with Taylor Rooks on SNY where you talked about parenting your daughter, painting your nails. I thought that was super cool.
MB: [Laughs] Listen, man. I lost my hood card because I’ve got paint on my nails, bro. So that’s good to hear. My 4-year-old will be 5 in April. Not much will change in those years. I think it’s cool. People should be themselves no matter what anyone says and how it feels. Just be comfortable with being yourself.
Last time I saw you at Madison Square Garden, everyone – opposing players, security guards, just everyone – wanted to talk to you. You just seemed like the most popular guy. What’s your secret?
MB: I don’t try or anything. I’m interested in people. I like hearing what others have to say. You build relationships, especially when you’ve been as many places as I’ve been. Some of them last a really long time.
Anything else you wanted to mention before I let you go on with your day?
MB: [Laughs] We’re giving out free promos because I’ve got a mixtape dropping next week. I’m just kidding but if you’re interested, maybe I can get to work on one, though. You’ll be our first call.
Bryan Kalbrosky
New York Knicks forward Michael Beasley, 29, has become one of the most important players on his team. He has been a very good isolation and post-up scorer, and he’s done a phenomenal job of showing he was a valuable addition.
He recently spoke with HoopsHype about his basketball journey, which has taken him through eight teams in the NBA and China.
You have a fairly young team in New York and you’re a veteran for these players. What kind of role have you taken with the Knicks?
Michael Beasley: It’s a lead-by-example situation. I talk a lot about what I’ve been through and try to get them to do the right things early. I want to make sure they learn the right habits at the start of their career just to make it a little easier. Until this year, I’d never been a veteran before. I’d never been with this many young guys. They’re teaching me a lot about being a leader and about being vocal. I’m one of the older guys and one of the guys that they look up to on the team. I try to teach them the right habits and how to handle certain situations both on and off the court.
Who are some of the veterans who mentored you earlier in your career? Are you using their lessons?
MB: Someone that I can always call is Udonis Haslem, no matter what I’m going through and no matter where I am in the world. He’s always going to pick up or call back shortly after. It’s the same thing with guys like Mike James and Dwyane Wade. I’ve learned from some great guys. I got really close with Ray Allen and LeBron James, too. I’ve been fortunate to play with some great guys and I’m double blessed to become friends with them.
Is there a player in the league that you want to model yourself after, like how you want guys around the NBA to look at you?
MB: [Laughs] LeBron James.
(Photo by David Liam Kyle/NBAE via Getty Images)
I like that answer. What was it like playing with LeBron on the Heat?
MB: It was a learning experience. People don’t always talk about how good of a person he is and how cognitive he is about things you are interested in, too. He’s definitely one of the guys that can change your life, just being around him. It was fun. I got to learn a lot on the court in terms of work ethic and as far as how he sees the game. It was one of the best years of my life. He’s one of the guys that I’ve used to bounce certain situations off and he’s helped me a ton in my career. He’s just as normal as they come. He’s probably the most humble guy I know.
Now that you’re in New York, this is a totally different market. How have you felt about the way the city has embraced you?
MB: Honestly, I couldn’t ask for anything better. For the city and fans to embrace not only the way I play but who I am as much as they did – it feels great to be able to be yourself and be accepted. I thank the city forever for that. It’s unfortunate we couldn’t win as much as we wanted to this year.
You’ve been used in a lot of one-on-one opportunities for the Knicks. Has that trust in isolation been discussed with your coaches?
MB: I think Jeff Hornaceck trusts me more than I trust myself, if that’s possible. Especially with Kristaps Porzingis going down and Tim Hardaway Jr. going down with injuries earlier this season, we needed someone to score and we needed someone to carry the load. We all want to be that guy and to be the superstar. I was a tad bit nervous when it was time for me to step up but Jeff and coach Kurt Rambisand a few of my teammates did a great job to help show me who I am. It feels good to be put in that position.
New York has also allowed you to play more on the ball than as a spot-up shooter. Is this something you can bring to your next contract too?
MB: I think the most overlooked part of my game is that I can make plays for other people. I can score and that’s fun. But for me, the game gets fun if and when I can make other people better. I would definitely like more chances to be a playmaker and put them in the position to be great. That’s what helps people win.
A lot of players who go to China now look at you as an example of someone who made it back and is now playing at a high level in the NBA. What did you learn while you were out there?
MB: I learned how to take things one day at a time. I learned how to live in the moment and learned how to play basketball the right way. I learned how to make individuals better. Above all us, I learned the value in solitude. A lot of us, not just basketball players but people, are afraid to be alone. I was one of those people and that experience in China helped me grow up. It was a big part of my maturation process. The more you notice your surroundings, the less you think about things you want to avoid. For me at the time, that was the NBA. I really wanted to get back home. The first six weeks, I would go nights or even a week without sleeping because it was on my mind so much. I had to accept my situation and take it as it came.
Players like DeMar DeRozan and Kevin Love have talked about that anxiety. Do you think that has helped others be more open with their own struggles?
MB: Hats off to those guys, man. More people than you think go through that. I go through it. It took me a while to realize it because we’re raised to believe that it’s an embarrassing thing. It’s definitely inspiring for them to be honest about what they are experiencing. They opened up the floodgates, they opened up the doors, for the next great NBA player or even the next great scientist. The next shy kid with anxiety can break out of their shell because of this.
What are some goals you’re hoping to accomplish in the league and off the court?
MB: I want to play basketball the wholesome way. I’ve been in this game for 10 years professionally. It’s all I want. I want the chance to play at a high level and win championships. I don’t want to set goals or limitations. I know once I’ve gotten the chance, everything else will come with it. And off the court, the only thing I worry about is my kids growing up healthy and knowing that they’re loved. If my family is fine and my kids are taken care of, that’s all I want. I’m a real simple guy.
(Photo by Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images)
I watched your interview with Taylor Rooks on SNY where you talked about parenting your daughter, painting your nails. I thought that was super cool.
MB: [Laughs] Listen, man. I lost my hood card because I’ve got paint on my nails, bro. So that’s good to hear. My 4-year-old will be 5 in April. Not much will change in those years. I think it’s cool. People should be themselves no matter what anyone says and how it feels. Just be comfortable with being yourself.
Last time I saw you at Madison Square Garden, everyone – opposing players, security guards, just everyone – wanted to talk to you. You just seemed like the most popular guy. What’s your secret?
MB: I don’t try or anything. I’m interested in people. I like hearing what others have to say. You build relationships, especially when you’ve been as many places as I’ve been. Some of them last a really long time.
Anything else you wanted to mention before I let you go on with your day?
MB: [Laughs] We’re giving out free promos because I’ve got a mixtape dropping next week. I’m just kidding but if you’re interested, maybe I can get to work on one, though. You’ll be our first call.
Knicks' Michael Beasley explains why he wears a watch on his ankle
Bryan Kalbrosky
Michael Beasley, who signed with the New York Knicks earlier this offseason, will play a bigger role for the team now that Carmelo Anthony is no longer in town.
With Anthony on the Oklahoma City Thunder, he will have a chance to become one of the leading scorers for the Knicks. Beasley was recently spotted wearing three watches, including one on his ankle.
Some of the watches do not tell the correct time, and he explained it’s more of a style choice to help spark conversation rather than have people sit around on their phones.
Beasley spoke about this decision on the “Timeout With Taylor Rooks” podcast (via SNY):
“I’m just finding a new balance … It’s the new catchphrase. I don’t have swag. I don’t have feng shui. I’m not cool. I’m just balanced … If you see anyone with a watch on their leg, they took my balance.”
During the interview, Beasley also said he had his nails painted because of his bossy four-year-old daughter. He said he often gets manicures with his children. Many NBA players get pedicures, including many incoming rookies, as HoopsHype recently covered:
Beasley explained that being a man is being comfortable with these things, and discussed his favorite rapper, Young Thug. Last year, the musician wore a dress on the cover of his Jeffery album and has often performed with the attire on stage.
In fact, Beasley said he has worn a burgundy dress from Zara because he was inspired by Thug. He cut in the middle, tied it and made it look a little funky.
To listen to the full interview with Beasley, check out the link from SNY below.
Bryan Kalbrosky
Michael Beasley, who signed with the New York Knicks earlier this offseason, will play a bigger role for the team now that Carmelo Anthony is no longer in town.
With Anthony on the Oklahoma City Thunder, he will have a chance to become one of the leading scorers for the Knicks. Beasley was recently spotted wearing three watches, including one on his ankle.
Some of the watches do not tell the correct time, and he explained it’s more of a style choice to help spark conversation rather than have people sit around on their phones.
Beasley spoke about this decision on the “Timeout With Taylor Rooks” podcast (via SNY):
“I’m just finding a new balance … It’s the new catchphrase. I don’t have swag. I don’t have feng shui. I’m not cool. I’m just balanced … If you see anyone with a watch on their leg, they took my balance.”
During the interview, Beasley also said he had his nails painted because of his bossy four-year-old daughter. He said he often gets manicures with his children. Many NBA players get pedicures, including many incoming rookies, as HoopsHype recently covered:
Beasley explained that being a man is being comfortable with these things, and discussed his favorite rapper, Young Thug. Last year, the musician wore a dress on the cover of his Jeffery album and has often performed with the attire on stage.
In fact, Beasley said he has worn a burgundy dress from Zara because he was inspired by Thug. He cut in the middle, tied it and made it look a little funky.
To listen to the full interview with Beasley, check out the link from SNY below.
Here's why LeBron James makes sense as a center for the Lakers
Bryan Kalbrosky
By: | July 20, 2018
The Los Angeles Lakers must figure out the best way to use LeBron James alongside Lonzo Ball and Brandon Ingram next season, but that’s obviously a good problem to have.
During an episode of The Lowe Post podcast on July 16, NBA analyst Brian Windhorst wondered if James could play center for the Lakers (via ESPN):
“Do they intend to have LeBron play center? Because Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is your two guard, right? Who’s your three? [Ingram]. Who’s your four? [LeBron]. What about Kyle Kuzma? … So you’re going to have a team that thinks of itself as a legitimate team that is going to start JaVale McGee at center?”
While it sounded strange at first, it could legitimately be in play for the Lakers – especially when they play a team like the Golden State Warriors, who often opt for a more small-ball style of play. James has played just one percent of his career minutes as a center, but played as much as nine percent in 2012-13, when the Miami Heat won the NBA title.
Even if the Warriors run a more traditional big like Jordan Bell on the court, it’s worth noting that the Golden State rookie matched up against James both in the 2018 NBA Finals and during their regular season games as well.
While Windhorst was just speculating, an executive for the Lakers recently told Eric Pincus that LeBron spending time at the five is indeed in the plans for Los Angeles (via Bleacher Report):
“We may not see this on day one, but the coaching staff is eager to see our version of the [Warriors’] Death Lineup with Lonzo [Ball], Josh Hart, Brandon Ingram, [Kyle] Kuzma and LeBron.”
This could just be seen at the end of games, of course, but it could also be the best five guys on the court at the same time for head coach Luke Walton.
It makes sense to see Hart next to James, rather than Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, because of his natural ability on open three-pointers and catch-and-shoot attempts. Hart was the MVP of the 2018 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas and someone who has caught LeBron’s attention.
When the Lakers did not sign any pure shooters in free agency this offseason, it was an indication that James was more likely to play off-ball next year than he had been earlier in his career.
After watching longtime friend Chris Paul finally have someone to share the on-ball duties with last season alongside guard James Harden, especially at this point in his career, it must seem appealing for James. Ball will likely be the primary playmaker for the Lakers in the starting lineup.
Even though some worry about the lack of three-point shooting, a lineup that features James next to Ingram, Kuzma and Hart is far more impressive than a lineup with Caldwell-Pope and McGee. This helps to solve that problem and makes the team a quicker team, more natural to run the transition offense.
No team ran transition offense more than Los Angeles did last season. It was their most-used play type with 19.5 percent of possessions. They were able to score a league-high 23.4 points per game when running this offense.
James, meanwhile, ranked No. 3 overall with 6.5 points per game when in transition. Kuzma was No. 26 overall with 3.8 ppg while Ingram had 3.6 ppg, Hart had 2.7 ppg and Ball had 2.1 ppg.
Expect their efficiency to improve with James on the court, however, as he averaged 2.2 assists per game in transition. This ranked No. 4 overall in the NBA. Ball averaged an impressive 1.7 assists per game on this play type, too, which will be a key component of their fast-paced team when they operate as a small-ball death
How LeBron James Changes the Lakers, Part 1- transition
How LeBron James Changes the Lakers, Part 2 - Post Ups
Bryan Kalbrosky
By: | July 20, 2018
The Los Angeles Lakers must figure out the best way to use LeBron James alongside Lonzo Ball and Brandon Ingram next season, but that’s obviously a good problem to have.
During an episode of The Lowe Post podcast on July 16, NBA analyst Brian Windhorst wondered if James could play center for the Lakers (via ESPN):
“Do they intend to have LeBron play center? Because Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is your two guard, right? Who’s your three? [Ingram]. Who’s your four? [LeBron]. What about Kyle Kuzma? … So you’re going to have a team that thinks of itself as a legitimate team that is going to start JaVale McGee at center?”
While it sounded strange at first, it could legitimately be in play for the Lakers – especially when they play a team like the Golden State Warriors, who often opt for a more small-ball style of play. James has played just one percent of his career minutes as a center, but played as much as nine percent in 2012-13, when the Miami Heat won the NBA title.
Even if the Warriors run a more traditional big like Jordan Bell on the court, it’s worth noting that the Golden State rookie matched up against James both in the 2018 NBA Finals and during their regular season games as well.
While Windhorst was just speculating, an executive for the Lakers recently told Eric Pincus that LeBron spending time at the five is indeed in the plans for Los Angeles (via Bleacher Report):
“We may not see this on day one, but the coaching staff is eager to see our version of the [Warriors’] Death Lineup with Lonzo [Ball], Josh Hart, Brandon Ingram, [Kyle] Kuzma and LeBron.”
This could just be seen at the end of games, of course, but it could also be the best five guys on the court at the same time for head coach Luke Walton.
It makes sense to see Hart next to James, rather than Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, because of his natural ability on open three-pointers and catch-and-shoot attempts. Hart was the MVP of the 2018 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas and someone who has caught LeBron’s attention.
When the Lakers did not sign any pure shooters in free agency this offseason, it was an indication that James was more likely to play off-ball next year than he had been earlier in his career.
After watching longtime friend Chris Paul finally have someone to share the on-ball duties with last season alongside guard James Harden, especially at this point in his career, it must seem appealing for James. Ball will likely be the primary playmaker for the Lakers in the starting lineup.
Even though some worry about the lack of three-point shooting, a lineup that features James next to Ingram, Kuzma and Hart is far more impressive than a lineup with Caldwell-Pope and McGee. This helps to solve that problem and makes the team a quicker team, more natural to run the transition offense.
No team ran transition offense more than Los Angeles did last season. It was their most-used play type with 19.5 percent of possessions. They were able to score a league-high 23.4 points per game when running this offense.
James, meanwhile, ranked No. 3 overall with 6.5 points per game when in transition. Kuzma was No. 26 overall with 3.8 ppg while Ingram had 3.6 ppg, Hart had 2.7 ppg and Ball had 2.1 ppg.
Expect their efficiency to improve with James on the court, however, as he averaged 2.2 assists per game in transition. This ranked No. 4 overall in the NBA. Ball averaged an impressive 1.7 assists per game on this play type, too, which will be a key component of their fast-paced team when they operate as a small-ball death
How LeBron James Changes the Lakers, Part 1- transition
How LeBron James Changes the Lakers, Part 2 - Post Ups
Another weirdo
yea that shooting is overblown and I'm glad they building the squad this way....
I'm tired of seeing all these 7'0 footer shooting 12% from deep
leaving unlimited rebounding chances....
Luz, Wag and McGee gonna man the center position
Lebron might even draw some minutes there, bro i think the team gonna d teams up and gun them the fuck outta the gym
i just was watching some highlights on Kuz, he can play just needs to get stronger
going watch some clips on hart
????
Beasley
Why they got Ron Artest up there like that?oday’s hero (submitted by johnathertonnn/Instagram)
The beef is a media creation. Shit like this is what allows trump to yell fake news.
When Rondo told Ryan Hollis he'd go to LA if Lebron went there, washed away any concerns I had about Rondo.
What you trying to say
Did that nigga get bigger? he lookin like The Rock........
i just said it. Did,..........he................get............bigger?What you trying to say
Bron got swept in the Finals but will have more nationally televised games this season than the team who swept him.
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