LeBron James might want to check out the latest from California Post.
On Wednesday, a strategy was proposed for how the Los Angeles Lakers could best utilize LeBron upon his return from injury. The Lakers certainly need their star player, but maybe not in the conventional sense.
It’s crucial for LeBron to be back on the court for the team to maximize its potential. Sure, the Lakers hold a 10-2 record without him, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’d be better off without him, as some might suggest, envisioning a scenario where he comes off the bench.
That idea? Well, it’s just absurd. LeBron James won’t be sitting on the bench.
However, it’s clear he doesn’t have to control the ball as much anymore.
The Lakers thrived when LeBron allowed others, like Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, to take the lead.
When he plays a less dominant role—perhaps as the third or even fourth option—the team functions even better.
On Thursday night at Crypto.com Arena, LeBron followed this suggested approach, and suddenly, everything made sense.
The Lakers triumphed over the Chicago Bulls with a score of 142-130, though the score wasn’t the main takeaway; it was the insights that unfolded during the game.
While LeBron was sidelined last week, the team found some momentum. They crushed the Knicks and handed a loss to the Timberwolves. Although the media response might have been slightly exaggerated in Los Angeles, it pointed out something significant.
The Lakers appear to have found a new driving force.
And that driving force? Luka Doncic.
His incredible performance on Thursday was noteworthy: he scored 51 points, made nine three-pointers, and recorded a near triple-double with 10 rebounds and nine assists. His impact felt almost electric.
“He’s been consistently productive and efficient for quite some time,” said Lakers head coach J.J. Redick. “He brought us life. He was phenomenal, making smart decisions and creating opportunities.”
Exactly.
With Doncic steering the offense, the Lakers can approach the game with more ease. The ball flows with intention, and the defense is stretched. The pace of the game stabilizes in a manner that only exceptional players can manage.
Once Doncic finds his groove, Reaves steps up as the ideal complement.
Reeves put up 30 points on 20 shots against Chicago, maneuvering expertly through the defense. When Doncic took a breather, Reaves kept the offense churning. And when Doncic returned, Reeves thrived from the space created.
That’s how the hierarchy looks.
First is Doncic.
Second is Reaves.
And then there’s LeBron James.
It feels a bit peculiar to frame it that way.
But greatness does evolve. Often, legends are the last to realize when the narrative shifts.
After the game, LeBron acknowledged his role as a potential fourth option.
Instead of forcing the issue, he adjusted to the flow of the game. He found his spots, set screens, and stayed active when the big men were needed.
His box score was quietly significant: 18 points, 7 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block.
That’s effective basketball.
Redick noted how well LeBron understood his new role, emphasizing that the team comes first. LeBron embraced that sentiment, realizing that Luka and Reaves needed their opportunities, even when it meant taking a step back himself.
If this version of LeBron continues, the Lakers could be cooking up something special.
What transpired on Thursday night was not just potent; it was record-setting.
The Lakers’ starters amassed 137 points—a record for a starting unit in regulation during NBA history. The previous record was 138 points, scored by the Phoenix Suns in a double overtime game in 2006.
And all of this happened in four quarters. Balance was key.
Deandre Ayton played his part effectively, contributing 23 points on just 13 shots, making the most of the opportunities provided by Doncic.
“We had a solid performance tonight,” Redick commented. “Ayton won’t always be the fourth option in terms of shot attempts. The crucial factor for everyone is just to play the game as it comes.”
And that’s precisely what LeBron did.
“The team is what matters most,” he stated post-game. “I know my capabilities as an individual, but what’s vital for this team is what I can adapt to. Winning is the only goal that matters.”
It’s the mindset of a superstar still on the quest for another championship ring.
Redick shared that he and LeBron had been discussing role adjustments after witnessing the team’s success in his absence.
“LeBron and I have had some great talks recently,” Redick said. “He’s eager to do whatever is necessary for the team and grasps how crucial it is for Luka and Reaves to excel.”
Translation: The Lakers recognize that, for now, Luka and Reaves take precedence before LeBron.
Instead of resisting change, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer chose to embrace it.
That kind of adjustment? It’s the ultimate selflessness in basketball.
Or to borrow a line from a popular series: “This is the way.”
