LeBron James is no stranger to picking up the slack for injured teammates. (AP/Nick Wass)
Just when things have started to click for Kevin Love in a Cleveland Cavaliers uniform, the injury bug has once again reared its ugly head.
The 28-year-old forward will reportedly miss significant time—approximately six weeks—after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his left knee on Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila).
NBA: Love out six weeks after knee surgery
His lengthy absence is a major setback for the defending NBA champions, who’ll definitely need to step up their game—even more so, for the team’s leader and best player LeBron James.
Despite the seemingly gargantuan task of once again putting the team on his broad shoulders, the four-time NBA MVP does not seem fazed at all, and wholeheartedly welcomes the challenge ahead of him.
“I’ve never stepped down,” James told ESPN. “It’s been a burden on me since I got drafted,” he added. “Why does it change now? Ain’t nothing changed. I have my guys ready to play every single night.”
James’ greatness has been apparent since he first step foot in the league in 2003, with fans expecting big things from him each game.
This year, the league’s premiere superstar has continued dominating the stat line, with averages of 25.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.8 assists per game, while leading the Cavs to an Eastern Conference best, with a 37-16 win-loss record.
Still, the now 14-year veteran understands the hard work it takes to win at the highest level, and vowed to continue going after it each night, despite their depleted line-up.
“I’ll rest when I retire,” James said. “As long as I’m in the lineup, we’ve got a chance. We good. Kev is out. Kev is out for an extended period of time. J.R. (Smith) has been out. But I’m in the lineup. I’ll be suiting up, we’ve got a chance against anybody. I ain’t worried.”
After his team experienced a rough patch last month, James implored Cleveland management to add another playmaker to the team.
With sharp-shooting J.R. Smith sidelined due to a thumb injury, the Cavs traded for the Atlanta Hawks’ sweet stroking Kyle Korver in January.
The team’s timely signing of former number two pick Derrick Williams to a 10-day contract will also help ease Love’s absence. Khristian Ibarrola/JB