LeBron James shows huge support to Dion Waiters, J.R. Smith on Instagram

LeBron James showed plenty of support for new Los Angeles Lakers teammates

LeBron James has really leaned into his team this season with the Los Angeles Lakers. After missing the postseason for the first time after 13 straight seasons last year, the Lakers are the clear front-runners to win the NBA title.

The team is built like no other LeBron-centered team before, either. He’s relied on his teammates sinking shots more than ever, leading the league in assists.

While the Lakers will face unconventional roadblocks in their quest for the Championship this season due to the unique return-to-play format in front of no fans, they are in a unique position as a well-rested team with two of the league’s top-10 players leading the way.

Around them, though, is a cast of role players that can step up and impact a game in a moment’s notice. J.R. Smith and Dion Waiters are the newest additions to that cast, making their debuts in the team’s scrimmages this past week.

So far, The King is loving what he’s seeing from them.

LeBron James shows love for Dion Waiters and J.R. Smith on IG

J.R. Smith and Dion Waiters, in the Lakers 123-116 win over the Washington Wizards on Monday, combined for 38 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists. Smith was exceptional from beyond the arc making six of his seven attempts, while Dion showed flashes of being the potential answer to the second unit’s point guard question with Rajon Rondo out with injury.

LeBron James, who didn’t play (coach’s decision), observed from the bench and took to his Instagram story after the game to show love to the big performance from the two new players.

James first posted this on his story, affirming “YES HE IS!!!!!!! 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥”

James also posted this post highlighting J.R., and this one too.

Finally, James posted this one and said: “🗣️🗣️🗣️🗣️🗣️🗣️🗣️🗣️ SWISHAAAAAA & 🧀” a nod to Dion and J.R.’s nicknames.

James is always finding a way to get involved and show his teammates some love, even if it’s just a scrimmage game where he’s observing from the bench.

While he and Smith especially have had their rifts, it seems James is excited to have them on the team and welcoming their skillsets into the Lakers title run.