LeBron James realizes his career has an expiration date.
That’s not to say that the Cavaliers’ star and four-time league MVP is anywhere near retirement. Now 30, he should still be among the NBA’s elite players five years from now, barring major injury.
But James has dealt with knee and back issues this season, which forced him to miss two weeks, and compounded those with a sprained ankle in the playoffs. He’s seemingly mentioned his aches and pains more than ever before, and that’s not a diva seeking attention talking.
Nonetheless, James’ growing awareness of his basketball mortality has brought the Cavs one of their biggest edges as they open the NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors on Thursday night at Oracle Arena.