LeBron James made his long-awaited return to the Lakers lineup today, and the moment came with an unexpected twist that immediately caught fans off guard. For the first time in 22 seasons, the four-time champion was not the final name announced during starting introductions. Instead, he walked out first, breaking a tradition that has followed him since his rookie year.
LeBron James is the first player introduced in the starting lineup after 22 seasons of being the last 🥲 pic.twitter.com/YP8WlG85Xo
— Lakers Daily (@LakersDailyCom) November 19, 2025
The video of the moment quickly made the rounds, showing LeBron stepping forward ahead of his teammates as the arena erupted. It was a moment that was weeks in the making for a subtle shift in routine, but it marked something symbolic for a player who has spent his entire career holding the spotlight.
LEBRON SPLASHES THE THREE FOR HIS FIRST POINTS OF THE SEASON 🔥🔥🔥
— LakeShowYo (@LakeShowYo) November 19, 2025
As the Lakers continue shaping their new identity around a deeper, more balanced roster, this change felt like an intentional reflection of that evolution. LeBron has embraced a different role this season, and today’s introduction only added to the story of how he is adapting at this stage of his career.
The last time LeBron James was not introduced last for the Lakers was during Luka Doncic’s debut, when he was announced second to last as a gesture of good faith toward the Slovenian superstar.
While we do not know if the move is temporary or permanent, the underlying message is the same: this is Luka’s team now. Even as the four-time champion makes his historic return, he is letting Doncic have the honor of going last, and he would not have it any other way.
For James, this season is about making the most of his time with Doncic while enjoying everything that comes with it.
So while it is true that LeBron may no longer be the top dog on the Lakers, it does not mean that he has become any less important. In fact, going into his 23rd season, James could be the factor that puts this team over the edge.
Tonight, as he took the court for the first time this season, we got the first glimpse of this team at full strength, and we have a better idea of what to expect from LeBron.
While an MVP may be out of reach, LeBron can still play up to his usual standards if he stays healthy. It took him some time to get going against the Jazz tonight, but he showed glimpses of his typical greatness that sparked big runs for the Lakers.
As he gets more games underneath him, LeBron will slowly shake off the rust that has accumulated after such a long hiatus from action. With no experience in this area, this is uncharted territory for LeBron, but he will have to learn quickly.
If LeBron can find his rhythm and settle into this new version of the Lakers, the team’s ceiling becomes even higher. His willingness to adjust sets the tone for the entire roster, and tonight’s introduction was a reminder of how much has changed. So long as he continues embracing this shift, the Lakers will have every chance to make a serious run this season.
