The Los Angeles Lakers are on a roll, folks. Thursday night saw them notch their eighth consecutive win, outlasting the Miami Heat in a high-scoring affair, 134-126. This late-season surge has fans buzzing, and ESPN analyst Brian Windhorst has tapped into the heartbeat of the team, pointing to one key factor: LeBron James’ belief in his squad.
On Friday’s First Take, Windhorst captured the essence of the Lakers' momentum. He noted, “The best thing I can say about the Lakers right now… LeBron believes.”
For those who’ve watched LeBron over the years, his belief is a game-changer. It’s not something you’ll find in the box score, but it’s palpable on the court.
And right now, LeBron believes in this team.
The Lakers’ win in Miami was a testament to that confidence, pushing them to a 45-25 record. This marks the first time they’ve been 20 games over .500 since their championship season in 2019-20.
LeBron was in classic form, posting a triple-double with 19 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists, all while shooting an efficient 8-for-12 from the field. Not too shabby for the second night of a back-to-back, especially considering the team only arrived in Miami at 5 a.m.
But LeBron wasn’t doing it alone. Luka Doncic was a force to be reckoned with, dropping a career-high 60 points as a Laker.
"I know it when I see it. LeBron believes in this team." 👀👀👀
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) March 20, 2026
- @WindhorstESPN
(Via @FirstTake / h/t @awfulannouncing )
pic.twitter.com/wXIXLwaGVn
He filled the stat sheet with seven rebounds, five steals, and three assists, shooting 18-for-30 from the field and a scorching 9-for-17 from beyond the arc. Miami’s defense had no answers for his relentless attack.
This Lakers squad is clicking on all cylinders, showcasing an impressive blend of offensive efficiency and balance. With LeBron orchestrating and Doncic lighting up the scoreboard, opposing defenses are struggling to keep up.
Next up, the Lakers head to the Kia Center to take on the Orlando Magic, who are holding a 38-31 record. Both teams are jockeying for playoff positioning, making this matchup one to watch.
As the regular season winds down, the Lakers are hitting their stride. Windhorst’s insights ring true as the team rides a wave of rhythm and confidence, all anchored by their veteran leader. Keep an eye on this squad-they’re making noise at just the right time.