As one of this generation's greatest basketball players, it is no wonder that LeBron James of the Cleveland Cavaliers strives for perfection. He demands it not only from himself but from his teammates as well.
According to a report by ESPN, James specifically has his eye on the 7-foot-1 center Timofey Mozgov.
While they both initiate a game with a light-hearted alley-oop play that James starts and Mozgov finishes during warm-ups, the duo's relationship takes quite a turn once the game starts. Fans, staff, and officials are ushered to a sight where James lays his demands and criticisms on the 29-year-old giant from Russia, whether its a botched offensive play or a failed defensive rotation.
"I'm the leader of this team, whatever it takes," James said. "So if it's laying into them, I'll do that."
The good news is that James' dedication to Mozgov applies to every player on the team, and he is not shying away from criticzing the whole roster if they don't do their part. Equally good to hear is that the team is responding to James' brand of leadership.
"That's what we expect from our leader," says reserve center Tristan Thompson. "If he's not going to push us, then who is going to?"
It is a similar sentiment echoed by Cavs head coach David Blatt. "I think he was encouraging them and I think he was pushing and driving his teammates to as a unit, individually and collectively, do better," Blatt said.
"I can tell you he pushes himself harder than he pushes anyone else. Believe me. 'Bron is the leader of this team and part of his responsibility is to push his teammates. And that's a good thing."
The scenario is beneficial for Mozgov, Casey Drottar of Rant Sports writes. Mozgov proved to be a force in last season's NBA Finals series, where he scored 16 points or more in four of the six Finals games and grabbed double-digit rebounds in three of the games. This season, his performance is abysmal and he reportedly needs to wake up.
Mozgov's been on a slump too long and The King and the rest of the Cavs need him badly.
