The Los Angeles Lakers came into this season with a lot of eyes on LeBron James - not just because he’s entering Year 22, but because of the lingering question that’s followed him all offseason: Is he still all-in with the Lakers? After a summer filled with trade rumors and whispers about his future, that question got a pretty direct answer.
“LeBron wants to compete for a championship,” said his agent, Rich Paul. “He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all.”
That’s been the throughline of LeBron’s career - chasing rings, not just stats. And for the Lakers, that means walking a tightrope between developing young talent and giving their 40-year-old superstar a real shot at title No.
- Paul emphasized the strong relationship between LeBron and the Lakers’ leadership, calling the partnership with Jeanie Buss and Rob Pelinka “critical” to his career.
That’s not just lip service - it’s a sign that both sides are still aligned, at least for now.
But when LeBron returned to the lineup after some early-season rest, there were real concerns about how his presence might affect the team’s chemistry - and more importantly, their defense. Some critics questioned whether a 40-year-old LeBron could still bring the energy needed on that end of the floor. The Lakers had started the season strong, and there was a legitimate fear that his return might throw off the rhythm.
Instead, the opposite happened.
Since LeBron rejoined the lineup, the Lakers are undefeated. And it’s not just about the wins - it’s about how they’re winning, and how LeBron is fitting into a new role that looks a lot like the one he’s been trying to embrace for years.
Ever since his return to Cleveland in 2014, LeBron’s been searching for someone to eventually take the torch. Back then, it was Kyrie Irving.
When he came to L.A., it was Anthony Davis. But those handoffs never quite stuck - Kyrie left, and while AD has had his moments, injuries and inconsistency have made it tough for him to fully grab the reins.
Now, for the first time, LeBron finds himself surrounded by two offensive engines - Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves - who are not just talented, but ascending. They’re in their primes, and they’re ready to lead.
And LeBron? He’s more than happy to let them.
This version of LeBron isn’t dominating the ball every possession. He’s picking his spots, operating off the ball more often, and conserving energy for when it matters most. His playmaking instincts are still sharp - that part of his game doesn’t age - but he’s no longer burdened with having to be the Lakers’ top scorer every night.
It’s a subtle shift, but a meaningful one. LeBron has always been a master of adaptation, and this latest evolution might be his most impressive yet. He’s not fading into the background - he’s just playing smarter, letting his teammates shine, and stepping up when the moment calls for it.
For the Lakers, that’s exactly what they need. For LeBron, it’s the kind of setup he’s been waiting for.
And for the rest of the league? It’s a reminder that even at 40, LeBron James isn’t done. He’s just playing a different game - and still winning.