LeBron appreciating, not emulating Kobe and KG

LeBron James is impressed with the longevity of the careers of Kobe Bryant and Kevin Garnett, but he isn't at that stage where he's looking for advice on extending his playing days.INDEPENDENCE, Ohio -- For the first time in his 13-year career, LeBron James entered a season on the wrong side of 30 years old.

He’s played more than 44,000 minutes between the regular season and playoffs combined, and all that wear and tear will eventually catch up to him, of course.

But when James sees a 37-year-old Kobe Bryant in his 20th season with the Los Angeles Lakers or a 39-year-old Kevin Garnett in his 21st season with the Minnesota Timberwolves, he stops short of emulation. There is appreciation, of…