Paul Pierce takes aim at year 23 LeBron James in most recent podcast comments

RC Nazemi

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Paul Pierce takes aim at year 23 LeBron James in most recent podcast comments image

AP Photo/Lynne Sladky

The Lakers are the 4th seed in the West as of right now, but have certainly not been playing like it throughout the month of December. They're currently 2-3 on the month and very, very close to being 1-4.

There are glaring issues that seem to be continually swept under the rug, like the lack of overall athleticism and defensive ability, mixed with their bench unit being abysmal. 

More: Here are the two ways the Lakers can fix their biggest issues

Among the problems on display has been the slightly noticeable decline in LeBron James's play. 

It's only been eight games, but so far through the season, LeBron is averaging 16.5 PPG, 6.0 RPG, and 7.6 APG. These numbers are a far cry from what we're used to seeing from LeBron James. 

Lakers fans aren't the only ones noticing this rapid decline in play this season. It's now caught the attention of one of LeBron's old rivals, Paul Pierce, who had some thoughts on The King in his 23rd campaign. 

Paul Pierce takes aim at LeBron James' recent play

During Pierce's podcast, No Fouls Given, they had a hypothetical conversation on who would win if they were to play other teams of podcasters. When Mind the Game came up, Pierce certainly had his thoughts. 

Pierce said, "Bron...I could guard LeBron right now. I can guard this version of LeBron right now!"

A wild statement to make for a few reasons. One, Pierce retired nearly 10 seasons ago, back in 2017. Two, Pierce couldn't guard LeBron during his playing career, so what in the world does he think would've changed since then? 

Regardless of his current slump, LeBron would pack up Paul Pierce like a U-Haul without giving it much thought. 

Hopefully, James is able to make these comments look more and more ridiculous as the season goes on, because with the news the Lakers gave on Austin Reaves today, LA is going to need it. 

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Editorial Team