“Lakers’ LeBron James Opens Up About His Unfulfilled Quest: ‘It Still Hurts’

LeBron James, the iconic forward for the Los Angeles Lakers, has amassed a staggering array of accolades over his illustrious NBA career. From MVP titles to championship rings, his trophy cabinet tells the story of a basketball legend. Yet, amidst his myriad achievements, there’s one notable absence that continues to gnaw at him: the Defensive Player of the Year award.

In a candid moment on his show, “The Shop,” James revealed the lingering sting of not securing this particular honor. “It’s the only trophy missing from my collection,” he confessed. Reflecting on past seasons, he highlighted the injustice of his near-miss in the 2012–13 campaign. That year, despite his defensive prowess, the accolade slipped from his grasp as Marc Gasol, not even among the first team all-defense, claimed the title.

Ironically, fate would intertwine their paths years later, as Gasol joined James on the Lakers roster during the 2020–21 season. Yet, the yearning for that elusive Defensive Player of the Year award remains, a testament to James’ relentless pursuit of excellence.”