Lakers’ LeBron James Receives Caution from Colin Cowherd Before Return
The Los Angeles Lakers experienced an eventful offseason in terms of roster decisions, including discussions around LeBron James. For now, their plans appear successful, with the team shaping up to contend for a championship, aligning with James’ goals.
LeBron James’ Championship Ambition
“LeBron wants to compete for a championship,” Rich Paul told ESPN. “He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. We are very appreciative of the partnership that we've had for eight years with Jeanie [Buss] and Rob [Pelinka] and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career.”
Performance in James’ Absence
Although LeBron James has yet to play this season, teammates Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves have taken charge early on.
- Luka Doncic made NBA history by starting the season with two straight 40-point games, becoming the first Lakers player to do so and only the fourth in NBA history alongside Anthony Davis, Michael Jordan, and Wilt Chamberlain.
- Austin Reaves started the season with a five-game scoring average unmatched by any other player in NBA history over a similar stretch.
“Luka is the 1st player in Lakers history to start a season with two consecutive 40-point games and only the 4th player in league history to do so (Anthony Davis, Michael Jordan and Wilt Chamberlain are the others),” Lakers insider Dave McMenamin posted.
“That's what the Lakers' Austin Reaves is averaging in 5 games this season. No one else in NBA history has put up those numbers or better over any 5-game span in a single season,” Opta Stats posted.
Author’s Summary
LeBron James’ desire to win remains strong as the Lakers build a promising future, while teammates Doncic and Reaves have made historic early-season impacts.