Jerry West defends LeBron James’s Finals record

NBA hall of famer Jerry West may be a member of Golden State’s front office, but he has not been shy about his support for Cleveland Cavaliers star LeBron James.

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NBA hall of famer Jerry West may be a member of Golden State’s front office, but he has not been shy about his support for Cleveland Cavaliers star LeBron James.

When asked about the criticism James has gotten for his 2–4 record in the NBA finals, West was clear that he thinks that arguement against James is unwarranted. 

“That’s the most ridiculous thing. If I were him, I’d probably want to strangle [detractors]," West said via ESPN. "He’s carried teams on his shoulders. He’s been to the Finals six straight times. How many times has he been the favorite? None. Zero. Grossly unfair to him.

“I don’t want to sound like Donald Trump, but it’s hard for me to believe someone doesn’t recognize his greatness. This guy does everything, and he’s competitive as hell. Frankly, I wish people would leave him alone.”

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West, who played with the Lakers from 1960–1974, holds the record for most losses in the NBA finals, going 1–8 in his nine finals appearances.

He has also discussed the disappointment of losing in the finals with James in the past, offering advice to the 31-year-old after his loss to the Dallas Mavericks in the 2011 NBA finals.

James and the Cavaliers are currently down 1–0 to the Warriors.