Los Angeles Lakers: What a motivated LeBron James means for team

We examine what a motivated LeBron James could mean for the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2019-20 season.

Up until last season, Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James had never had his durability questioned, nor his ability to lead a team into the playoffs. He had been to eight consecutive NBA Finals and 14 consecutive postseasons. All of that changed during his first season as a Los Angels Laker.

During the 2018-19 NBA season, LeBron James missed a career-high 27 games due to injury. That was a big part of the Los Angeles Lakers missing the playoffs for the 6th consecutive season. It was a let down for both James and a Lakers franchise looking to get back into the postseason.

Since then James’ title as the best player in the world has been stripped by the likes of current NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard.

At least that’s what many in the media are saying and during media day James let us know he hears the naysayers.

On Sept. 27 the Los Angeles Lakers held media day and we got to officially hear from LeBron James.

He spoke on his role with the organization as well as his desire for Anthony Davis to be the focal point of the Lakers offense but he also sent a message to everyone watching and listening.

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James said, “I’m very motivated”. He went on to say “but I’m not in talking about it mode. I’ve been very quiet this summer for a reason. My mother always told me, ‘Don’t talk about it, be about it.’ So that’s where I’m at.” So what does this mean for the Los Angeles Lakers?

I don’t think we will see his numbers improve. Even in an injury-plagued season James averaged 27.4 points, 8.3 assist, and 8.5 rebounds on 51% shooting, essentially matching his career numbers.

Statistically, he’s still at the top of his game. I think we’re going to see him put more effort in on the defensive end of the floor. Don’t expect LeBron to be on the first team all defense, even though Anthony Davis might want that, but he’s going to be dialed in more on both ends than we’ve seen him in recent years.

LeBron is also likely motivated to show Davis, a free agent to be, that any slippage in play is minimal. James’ ability to win another title is directly tied to Davis signing long term with the Lakers. LeBron must show him he won’t find a better partner anywhere else in the NBA.

LeBron will take it to the other top players on the court all year long. The Los Angeles Lakers will be on national television a league-high 43 times this season and LeBron will have plenty of opportunities to show the world he’s still the best player in the game.

Ultimately, he knows he’s judged by championships and if he’s using his doubters as motivation that can only be a good thing for a Lakers organization that only celebrates banners.