One of the biggest storylines in the NBA right now is the Lakers’ early success without LeBron James. The four-time MVP has been sidelined as he battles sciatica, and it’s caused severe pain for the 40-year-old.
The Rise of the Luka Lakers
LeBron’s absence has revealed many positives about the new roster surrounding Luka Doncic. Without James running the offense, Doncic and Austin Reaves’ usage has increased drastically.
Both have produced 40+ points on multiple occasions, and they’re the backcourt duo averaging 28+ points per game.
It’s been an MVP campaign for Luka and a breakout year for Reaves. They’re delivering successful results as the main options on offense. Only one year separates the two, so their timeline is a major benefit for Mark Walters and the new ownership.
The future looks bright for the Lakers, but it’s become increasingly apparent that LeBron will not be around to see it. While his production has not regressed, the defensive effort and durability have dwindled.
Finding LeBron’s Role When He Returns
LeBron James has had a positive impact on every team he’s been a part of, but this is the first time a team has thrived without any of his contributions. He arrived in LA in 2018, and the Lakers’ current 8-4 record is their best start since the 2020-21 season, indicating a culture shift is imminent.
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LeBron has fallen in the hierarchy, but there is still a place for him in the Lakers’ system. His playmaking and basketball IQ will add another layer to their offense. The Hall of Fame point forward averaged 8.2 assists per game last year, and he could lead the league in assists for the second time if he dials in on his playmaking at an older age.
General Manager Rob Pelinka has done an excellent job signing shooters such as Jake LaRavia, who is shooting 36.6% from three-point range during his first year in Los Angeles. Rui Hachimura is also shooting the ball at a 51.1% clip from deep. Both have developed into double-digit scorers alongside Luka and Austin.
Reaves and Dončić are proven spot-up shooters, which pair well with the defensive gravity of James, and Deandre Ayton will excel in the pick-and-roll with all three. Ayton is averaging 15.5 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, primarily from second-chance opportunities and cuts to the rim.
LeBron has experience playing with some of the best big men of his era, so developing a tandem with Ayton will come naturally for the 21x All-Star.
Defensive Concerns
Fans are hesitant to support LeBron because of concerns about his defensive play. He remains a better defender than most of the league, but his current effort doesn’t justify his $53 million salary.
As he ages, it’ll only worsen, leaving the front office with an interesting puzzle to solve. Before the season started, Rob Pelinka reiterated his desire to help LeBron win his fifth ring, and the two have only maintained a positive relationship in the public eye.
The Return of the King
LeBron’s future in Hollywood hinges on his willingness to accept a significant pay cut. Reaves’s extension has become a priority, and Hachimura is also in the final year of his contract. Both are vital for the future of the ‘Luka Lakers,’ and at 27, they’re near their peak years while James is on the verge of retirement.
He is still playing at an All-NBA level, and Lakers fans still have love for James after raising their 17th banner in October of 2020. He can perform at a high level for the next two to three years, but the best ability is availability.
Either way, he remains a major part of the roster, and the Lakers’ full potential will be unlocked when he returns to the rotation.
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