LeBron James Embraces New Role in the Dončić Era

LeBron James, at 40 years old, has shown once again why he’s one of the NBA’s most adaptable stars. After the big trade that brought Luka Dončić to Los Angeles, James has willingly taken a step back from being the main playmaker. This change has created a new, exciting dynamic that has left opponents struggling to defend.

The Lakers’ dominant 21-point win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday (136-115) highlighted how dangerous this new partnership can be. After the game, LeBron spoke about his new role:

“In order for us to be the team we need to be, the ball needs to be in Luka’s hands. I’m very comfortable playing off the ball.”

Since joining the Lakers in 2018, LeBron has been the team’s main offensive force, leading the team in assists and consistently being one of the league’s leaders in touches. But now, his role has changed. He is posting his lowest usage rate since his rookie season, but the Lakers are still winning, with five victories in their last six games.

Adapting to different roles is something LeBron has done throughout his career. He pointed to his time in Cleveland when he was the primary scorer, then in Miami when he played off the ball, and back to being the main offensive player when he returned to Cleveland. LeBron is used to evolving his game, and he’s doing it again in Los Angeles.

This new partnership with Luka creates a real problem for defenders. If teams trap Luka, LeBron can step in as the secondary playmaker and create opportunities for his teammates. LeBron explained, “Anytime you get a body off of you or eyes off of you, it unlocks a lot for you and for our team.”

LeBron also recalled a play against the Clippers, where Luka was double-teamed, passed the ball to LeBron, and LeBron found Gabe Vincent for a wide-open three.

Lakers head coach JJ Redick praised LeBron for embracing his new role, saying it was a big step for him to give up some control of the offence. “LeBron playing off the ball and being comfortable with that is huge,” Redick said.

For LeBron, who has controlled the tempo for most of his 22-year career, this shift is one of the biggest changes he’s made to his style of play.