Olajuwon is Teaching LeBron the Post

James looks to expand game during NBA lockout

LeBron James is keeping a pretty busy schedule during the NBA lockout, doing charity work, hosting a basketball camp, and planning an upcoming trip to China.

But of most interest to Heat fans are the practice sessions James has been putting in with NBA Hall of Famer Hakeem Olajuwon.

James said Monday he has gone to Houston several times to learn the finer points of post play from the former Rocket, who in the past has counseled Kobe Bryant and Dwight Howard in the post game, among others.

"I look at what he was able to do throughout his career," James said. "Unbelievable talent. Multiple champion. Just to see how he was able to dominate in the low post, for me as an individual, I just try to look at some of the things I feel I need to get better at and hit home at it. Our team becomes better if I continue to get better and that's what it's about."

If James can improve his post game, the Heat stand to become much more efficient on the offensive side. Though James and teammate Dwyane Wade were among the top scorers in the NBA last season, their games did not exactly mesh.

Indeed, the reason they were both able to average over 25 points per game was that they were so committed to taking turns scoring.

An improved James in the post would free up room in the paint for Wade, and could also give the Heat's perimeter shooters more open looks, since James would suck in defenders from the perimeter.

In the NBA Finals, the Dallas Mavericks practically begged James to play the low post, cutting off his driving lanes and contesting his outside shots. It worked, as James practically disappeared during the Finals.

James' post game has been the only major weakness in his game over his entire career. Working out with Olajuwon won't turn him into "The Dream" 2.0, but it certainly can't hurt.

James also confirmed he is not considering offers to play internationally during the ongoing lockout, remaining hopeful the lockout will not cancel the 2011-2012 NBA season.

"I'm optimistic that we will have a season this year," James said. "Very optimistic."

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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