As the Lakers prepare for a season filled with high expectations, LeBron James is making it clear that his role will not be a concern. With the roster shifting and responsibilities evolving around him, the four-time champion reminded everyone that he has never been defined by a single position. His mindset entering the year is simple: whatever the Lakers need, he will provide.
“Don’t matter, I’m a ball player,” James said, via Jovan Buha. “Best thing about me and the way I’ve been built my whole life is that I’ve never had a position.”
James has spent more than two decades proving exactly that, taking on every job from primary scorer to point forward to defensive anchor. As the Lakers search for the best lineup combinations, his versatility remains their greatest advantage. His ability to adapt has been a cornerstone of his longevity, and he is embracing that identity once again.
“There’s not one team, one club, in the world that I can’t fit in and play for. I can do everything on the floor. Whatever this team needs me to do, and more, I can do it.”
As the Lakers have shifted toward Luka Doncic as the face of their franchise, many expected LeBron James to revolt in a vain attempt at holding power. Instead, not only has LeBron accepted his new role, he has embraced becoming whatever the Lakers need him to be.
This season, with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves leading the show offensively, the Lakers might not need James to average 20 points per game. But if he can be that stabilizing presence on the court and in the locker room, it might be enough to give the Lakers (10-4) an edge over other Western contenders.
At 40 years old, coming off a nagging sciatica injury, it is hard to expect much from James, but he is set to return tonight for his historic 23rd season. While his role will be different than usual, LeBron can adapt to any situation, and he is confident his game will translate well alongside career-best seasons from Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic.
As someone who can do everything on the court, LeBron’s game cannot be defined by a single position or role. As the ultimate superstar who has no weaknesses on the court, his impact on the Lakers is felt in multiple ways, and he knows exactly how and when to elevate his game.
With one year and 52.6 million dollars left on his deal, James’ future beyond this season is uncertain, but he is not focused on tomorrow. His only concern for now is the next game up, and he hopes it will be one of his best ones yet.
If James (four-time champion) delivers steady production and veteran leadership, the Lakers will be positioned to compete with anyone in the West. His game may look different at this stage, but his presence still carries immense value, and the organization believes he can lift the group when it matters most. Assuming he settles into this new role smoothly, the Lakers will be one of the league’s most balanced contenders.
