Charles Barkley’s hyperbole of “I’m 100 years old” for LeBron James brings reality to the NBA superstar’s situation. It’s no secret that the all-around player’s getting older. CBS didn’t even rate him as part of the top 10 for this season’s best NBA players. However, does this mean that Anthony Davis will be his successor?
“LeBron James: ‘I’m 100 Years Old'” Jokes Barkley
Despite being an obvious joke for the NBA veteran, he’ll reach his 21st season in the ’23-’24 season. This is a big deal since LeBron James is 38 years old, surpassing the usual 35-year-old retirement age for many players.
“At some point, LeBron’s gonna have to say ‘AD, damn, I’m 100 years old. It’s about time for you to be the best player. You are in your prime.
Charles Barkley on Anthony Davis
Furthermore, Barkley emphasizes that Anthony Davis should be his successor. He’s the one that needs to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to the ring. The former power forward thinks that the team should build around Davis more.
“I said about five or six years ago, that dude there [Davis] is gonna be the best player in the world for the next 10 years. He’s not even in the conversation anymore.”
Charles Barkley
Furthermore, Bill Simmons claims that the big man is already past his prime, which was in 2018. Apparently, the podcast host has given up on the Lakers’ center of being the #1 player in the game.
“I’ve given up on AD having that possibility anymore. I think it’s too late. I think he’s had too many injuries, and I actually don’t think he’s gotten better. I feel he peaked in 2018 in New Orleans.”
Bill Simmons
Barkley agrees, claiming that Davis doesn’t have the “killer instinct.” The former forward talks about the mindset one must have to be a top-tier NBA player.
The Killer Instinct
It’s not a matter of “There are better players here,” but rather, “There may be great players here, but I’ll still put on a show too.”
The former Houston Rockets player just doesn’t see that attitude with Davis, and that could be one of his most significant handicaps from being the best player in the league.
This is not the first time Charles Barkley has criticized Davis
Fan Opinions Are Mixed
Some fans are already clamoring for Davis to be crowned as the #1 player, especially with how well he plays defensively.
However, others counter that the Lakers’ center isn’t leading any team anywhere. This is where Barkley’s idea of the “killer instinct” comes in and how the big man lacks the drive.
Time will only tell if Davis truly has the killer instinct that will lead the Lakers to another ring.
Do you think the big man has what it takes to carry the mantle once James retires?
