LeBron James Still Has Problem with Right Elbow

Every Cleveland Cavaliers fan remembers when LeBron James shot free throws left handed. He did so in Game 5 of a playoff series with the Chicago Bulls, as seen here in this video:

Then last night during the halftime of the Cavs game, as players were back on the floor warming up Joe Vardon, who covers just LeBron James for NEOMG, noted that James seemed to be having some trouble with the arm:

It created some concern, especially with the way he shot last night. LeBron was 7 – 17 from the field, including 1 – 6 from beyond the arc. He also missed 3 of the 7 free throw attempts that he had. It could be why he played more of a point guard role than he has been lately for the Cavs. If his elbow is bothering him it doesn’t seem as bad dribbling or passing, he had 12 assists. This morning Brian Windhorst, as noted by ESPN Cleveland, reported that the injury has been bothering him for 6 years:

While Windhorst notes that it is not a major issue, it is concerning. Why hasn’t he had anything done about it if it has bothered him for that long? How does it impact his shooting? Is it worse some nights than others? Is it a chronic thing that will only get worse? Is he making it worse by not getting it taken care of for so long?

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All very important questions for the Cavaliers and their fans as the franchise is tied to James for the foreseeable future.

As LeBron ages we expect injuries. The problem with his back is especially concerning and the added elbow issue raises questions about how James’ body will do as it ages. The years and years of big minutes, playoff runs and physical play, not to mention taking little time off in the summer due to USA Basketball, all could be coming back to take a toll.

Likely James will be asked about his elbow before tonight’s game in Toronto. He will likely blow off the issues as unimportant and want to focus on the East leading Raptors. However it should be noted that Vardon saw him holding it as if he was in pain after every shot. He might be able to push through for some time but long term it seems like another physical issue that needs addressed.

What do you think about LeBron James’ elbow problems? Big deal or not?