Markieff Morris is stirring the pot with his latest comments about LeBron James. Speaking on The Morris Code, the veteran forward said that LeBron is no longer the Lakers’ second option, pointing to Austin Reaves’ breakout as proof that the balance of power in Los Angeles has shifted.
“At this point, he’s not the second option. Twenty-six and eleven, you gonna take the ball out of his hands? You already said that’s the future right there, and he’s playing next to him, averaging twenty-seven next to him. Who’s the second option now?” said Morris.
Morris went on to explain that while LeBron’s greatness and longevity are undeniable, the Lakers’ new direction has moved him further down the pecking order.
“As an organization, you chose to go a certain way. He’s behind Reaves now, and I think that his not being the focal point puts him down a couple of options. It doesn’t take away anything from his game, but the position that he’s at right now, he’s the number three option on that team,” Morris said.
LeBron James has never been the third option before. In fact, before Luka Doncic’s arrival, he was never anything but the first option on all of his teams. Through his stints with the Cavaliers, Heat, and Lakers, LeBron was always at the top of the hierarchy, and every major decision went through him. He approved trades, defined the culture, and acted as almost an assistant coach for his team.
At 40 years old, however, James’s role has shifted to reflect his current situation. In his 23rd season, he is taking a more cautious approach to his workload, and it means he will not be leading in the same way fans are used to seeing from him.
Instead, LeBron is striving to find a balance between staying productive on the court and preserving his body for the long haul. At this stage of his career, the Lakers know they cannot rely on the King to carry them every night.
With Doncic now leading the charge, the team’s entire timeline has shifted, as well as its hierarchy of authority. Luka is at the top now, and Austin Reaves has taken the spot right below him.
With averages of 31.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 9.3 assists per game this season, Reaves has elevated his game and helped carry the Lakers to early success. Without LeBron playing a single minute of action, the franchise is now third in the West at 6-2.
Reaves and Doncic have been heroes for the Lakers so far, but the job is far from finished. With many games still left to play, Los Angeles must stay focused. The team has its two best players available, and LeBron is returning soon to remind everyone just how effective he can be in any role he takes on.
LeBron James may no longer be the Lakers’ top option, but that does not mean he has stopped being their standard. Even if Reaves and Doncic are leading the charge now, everything still runs through LeBron’s presence and influence. His ability to adapt has kept him relevant longer than anyone expected, and his return will show why he is still one of the most impactful players in the game.
