PHOENIX, ARIZONA – MAY 25: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts to a three-point shot against the Phoenix Suns during the second half of Game Two of the Western Conference first-round playoff series at Phoenix Suns Arena on May 25, 2021 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
LeBron James was caught on camera encouraging teammate Kentavious Caldwell-Pope after another rough night for the guard.
The Los Angeles Lakers were able to bounce back in Game 2 against the Phoenix Suns and even the series at 1-1. LeBron James and Anthony Davis had big nights, while Dennis Schroder also returned to his usual form.
One eyesore in the box score was Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. He did not make a single shot in 31 minutes after scoring only seven points in the Game 1 loss. It should be noted he had the best plus-minus at plus-19 on the night.
Caldwell-Pope was understandably frustrated Tuesday night. But James made sure to give him some passionate support late in the win.
LeBron James encourages Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
Talented lip-readers can see James telling Caldwell-Pope he wants him to keep shooting.
James has been criticized in the past for how he acts in a locker room or even on the floor. One thing that has been clear throughout his entire career is that he boosts the play of those around him. Just look at how Kevin Love has been in Cleveland with and without James in town.
Caldwell-Pope is playing significant minutes and the only way to break out of this slump is to keep shooting. He is a player averaging nearly 10 points per game in the regular season and the Lakers cannot suddenly lose that production at a time when Kyle Kuzma‘s effectiveness is fading.
Aside from James, Davis, and Schroder, Andre Drummond was the only other Laker in double-figures with 15 points. But fans know his play is shaky from game to game. Factor in more limited minutes for Kuzma and Alex Caruso and it is apparent why James is imploring Caldwell-Pope to not pout and to keep shooting.