LeBron James is not the Los Angeles Lakers’ main guy anymore. That role now belongs to Luka Doncic.
After the blockbuster trade that brought Doncic to Los Angeles, LeBron finds himself in a position he has never been in before: the second option on his own team. That in itself is going to make this Lakers season one wild ride.
For 22 years, LeBron has been the undisputed centerpiece wherever he has played. From the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Miami Heat to Los Angeles, teams have been built around his every move. But now?
The Lakers front office has made it crystal clear that Doncic is the future. They are even planning cap space for 2027 to build around him long-term.
LeBron's handling of new reality could set tone for entire Lakers season
That is a huge shift, and it means LeBron has to figure out a new role. James is one not the star attraction anymore.
Bill Simmons put it well on his podcast when he said, “Just seeing LeBron pushed to the side like this… I don’t know if he’s wired that way.”
Simmons is right, LeBron is not exactly built to play second fiddle quietly. That does not mean he will not be able to adapt. Instead, he is likely to embrace the challenge in his own way, because on the court, this could be a smart move.
Doncic is a magician with the ball, and having LeBron as a secondary creator and scorer opens up exciting possibilities. LeBron’s shooting has improved, and he has become more selective with his energy.
When he decides to attack the cup, there is no doubt that he is still one of the most dominant players in the game. Plus, with Doncic demanding so much defensive attention, LeBron will find plenty of open looks.
Off the court is where the real story will unfold. LeBron knows how to control narratives better than anyone.
Expect him to use the media, social platforms, and subtle comments to keep himself in the conversation. This season will be as much about what LeBron says and hints at as it is about what he does on the court.
So, yes, LeBron is not the face of the Lakers anymore. That does not mean he is stepping aside. He’s still holding the pen, writing the story, and shaping the drama. That alone makes the upcoming season unmissable.