Ex-NBA Star Explains Why LeBron James Has 'Fully Accepted' New Role at the Lakers

With Luka Dončić assuming the role of scoring leader and Austin Reaves solidifying himself as a cornerstone, the hierarchy in the Lakers’ locker room has undergone a massive change. 

While many doubted a superstar of James’ stature would take a backseat, the 22-time NBA All-Star is nailing a new kind of dominance. This version of the Lakers forward, averaging 21.2 points per game while leading the league in fast-break scoring, is proof that sacrifice doesn’t have to mean decline.

James has preserved his legs for the moments that matter most, like his recent full-extension dive to secure a tiebreaker over the Nuggets.

LeBron James Shows Respect for Kevin Durant

The Los Angeles Lakers secured a 100-92 win over the Houston Rockets on Monday. Despite the loss, Kevin Durant scored 18 points, and the spotlight shifted to LeBron’s postgame comments about his longtime rival. 

LeBron James was asked which version of Durant has been toughest to guard. 

“I mean, every version,” James said.

He talked about Durant’s time with the Golden State Warriors.

“You couldn’t put multiple bodies in front of him because of the threat of Klay and Steph,” James said.

Additionally, he had similar thoughts about the Brooklyn Nets era. 

“Any time you can’t put multiple bodies in front of a player that can score like that it’s very challenging,” James said. 

While the rosters have changed, with Durant now leading a young Rockets squad and LeBron thriving in a secondary role behind Luka Dončić, there’s mutual respect between the veterans of the game.