The Los Angeles Lakers are on a tear, winning 13 of their last 15 games, and it seems like the whole squad is locked in. LeBron James, one of the game's all-time greats, is embracing a new role as the Lakers' third scoring option. It's a shift from his usual spotlight, but it’s all about the bigger picture for the team.
Luka Doncic has taken center stage as the primary offensive weapon, dazzling fans with his recent performances. But there’s a question lingering in the air: How long will LeBron be content with this supporting role, especially if the Lakers stumble early in the playoffs?
Chris Broussard recently shared some thoughts on Fox Sports 1's "First Things First," suggesting that LeBron might have some reservations about Doncic's high shot volume, especially when it doesn’t always translate to efficient scoring. Broussard pointed out, "LeBron’s basketball IQ is off the charts.
Watching Luka take 30 shots and miss a lot of them can't sit well with him. But he knows this is our best shot at winning.
It's not the smartest basketball, but it’s necessary."
In their recent 137-130 victory over the Indiana Pacers, Doncic was on fire, hitting 50% of his 30 attempts and racking up 43 points. However, his shooting was less efficient in the two games prior, where he shot just 39% from the field.
Doncic’s style is undeniably ball-dominant, leading the NBA in usage percentage. But it’s a two-way street-his teammates need to be more active without the ball, creating opportunities rather than relying on him to make something out of nothing.
At times, the Lakers’ halfcourt game can become sluggish, forcing Doncic into tough, contested shots as the shot clock winds down. This isn’t the smartest strategy, especially with the playoffs around the corner. Minimizing these stagnant moments will be crucial.
This season, Doncic is averaging a whopping 33.6 points on 47.4% shooting from the field and 36.4% from beyond the arc, along with 7.8 rebounds, 8.3 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. LeBron, meanwhile, is contributing 21 points, six rebounds, and 6.9 assists per game. It’s a dynamic duo, and if they can fine-tune their approach, the Lakers could be a formidable force come playoff time.