Paul Pierce Says He Can Still Guard LeBron James

Paul Pierce stirred the pot by saying he could guard today's LeBron James. On No Fouls Given Pierce declared "I can guard this version of LeBron right now," adding "Not LeBron last game, but the last three games before that? I can guard him." LeBron has missed time with sciatica, is averaging 16.5 points in eight games, but scored 29 in a recent win. Merlin sees bravado wrapped in truth. Pierce has the pedigree to make a loud claim, yet real defense is about quickness, minutes and team strategy. LeBron flashing a 29 point night shows he still commands the game. A retired vet might bother him for stretches, but holding LeBron down for a whole contest is a rare magic trick.