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Los Angeles Lakers: LeBron James Reveals the Truth About the Knee Injury He Sustained in the 2025 NBA Playoffs 4 Apr 30, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) controls the ball against Minnesota Timberwolves guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker (9) during the first half in game five of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

'You All Know What I’m Talking About': LeBron James PED Controversy Opened Up By Ric Bucher After Wild Claims

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Dan Agulto | Last updated Jun 4, 2025 7:14 AM ET

The controversial topic of LeBron James and his alleged use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs).

In a recent episode of “The Dreamerspro Show,” NBA analyst and reporter Ric Bucher got honest about his thoughts on the allegations of LeBron James using PEDs to sustain his “longevity.”

“I appreciate LeBron for what he’s done,” Bucher said. “I just don’t make the assumption that everyone wants to be him. And there’s also the nagging question about exactly how he’s maintained such extraordinary fitness at such a ripe age.”

“Now, whether there’s any basis for the speculation, and I think you all know what I’m talking about. I’m not gonna voice it because I don’t have the means of backing it up. But we all know what the speculation is out there.”

“And I can assure you, there’s plenty of it privately by players and personnel in the league.”

Ric Bucher says players and media members secretly believe Lebron is taking something to boost his performance

(Via The Dreamerspro Show on Youtube) pic.twitter.com/nvT3x9OQ4j

— TheTruth (@Thetruth8240) June 2, 2025

So far, LeBron James has played for 22 seasons in the NBA, and is expected to make history as the first and only NBA player in history to play for 23 seasons, should he play for the 2025-2026 season.

LeBron James Calls Out Brian Windhorst Over NBA Media Criticism

LeBron James did not hold back in his latest remarks about ESPN analyst Brian Windhorst, taking a direct shot at him on social media. James, who has been vocal about his views on NBA media coverage, responded to a video mocking Windhorst’s comments about his podcast, Mind the Game.

And we’re not done yet. pic.twitter.com/2I8sKIfNXl

— Mind the Game (@mindthegamepod) June 3, 2025

Feb 7, 2024; Berkeley, California, USA; Lebron James and Savannah James watch the game between the California Golden Bears and the USC Trojans during the second half at Haas Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports

In a now-deleted post on X, James criticized analysts who, in his words, “know nothing about basketball” yet continue to shape narratives about the game. His frustration stems from Windhorst’s skepticism about James’ ability to succeed in the podcast space, despite the show’s growing popularity. James launched Mind the Game in 2024 alongside JJ Redick, aiming to provide fans with a fresh perspective on basketball without unnecessary drama.

Windhorst has previously expressed doubts about James’ approach to media, arguing that NBA coverage should balance storytelling with analysis. However, James believes that modern sports media often prioritizes controversy over genuine appreciation for the game. He has repeatedly emphasized that his podcast is meant to celebrate basketball rather than focus on players’ shortcomings or off-court drama.

Analyst: LeBron James' Shocking Game 2 Issue Could Spell Trouble for the Los Angeles Lakers 5 Apr 8, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James warms up before the start of a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

Windhorst, in response, defended his stance, stating that while he supports players holding the media accountable, he also believes that fans enjoy the rivalries and narratives that come with the sport.

Despite the criticism, LeBron James remains committed to reshaping the conversation around basketball through his podcast. He sees Mind the Game as an opportunity to engage with fans in a way that avoids the sensationalism often found in traditional sports media.

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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