The Lakers‘ early exit in the playoffs might be working just in favor of LeBron James, in a certain way. The NBA superstar continues to use this offseason to guide both his sons, Bronny and Bryce James. After watching Bronny make his presence felt at the Draft Combine, LeBron decided to take up the coaching job for Bryce in Nike’s EYBL. However, it ultimately ended up in a loss, as former Bulls star Carlos Boozer’s son was too good for Bryce. 

Bryce James, who represents Strive for Greatness in the EYBL, dropped 21 points and 5 rebounds, with a 5/9 shooting from the three-point line against the Nightrydas. Anyhow, Cameron overshadowed Bronny’s game with 21 points and 9 rebounds, with 100% three-point shooting. Most importantly, he gave the Nightrydas a win, even though Strive for Greatness had LeBron James coaching them from the sideline all game.

Cameron Boozer did all of the above in the presence of notable NCAA coaches like Jon Scheyer, John Calipari, Dan Hurley, and Mark Pope, who were seated courtside at EYBL. He ranks No.7 while Bryce ranks No. 148 overall, reportedly making him the 18th prospect from California in the ’25 class. This makes Bryce’s loss more embarrassing, but his efficient game might have opened the eyes of the above-mentioned NCAA coaches. At the same time, does this also open a door for LeBron James? 

The Lakers head coach vacancy might be filled in the upcoming weeks as top candidates like JJ Redick are rumored to be hired. However, a few NBA veterans want the King to take up an added role. 

LeBron James to coach the Lakers? What’s the feasibility?

The first NBA athlete to take up the role of player-coach was Bill Russell. The Boston Celtics legend was both a coach and a player for three seasons from 1966-69. In this stint, he won two world Championships, and ever since no one has repeated this in NBA history. After looking at the Lakers’ struggle to find a new coach, ex-Laker Byron Scott had an idea and suggested LeBron James take up the coaching for the franchise, despite a huge hindrance. 

He shared, “My recommendation for the next Lakers coach…is make LeBron the coach. Make LeBron the coach. it’s obvious to me at least, that he’s making a lot of decisions that’s going on in this organization from a coaching standpoint to a player standpoint.” 

DeMarcus Cousins also suggested something similar.

However, the league prohibited teams from employing a player-coach in 1984.

Regardless, at 40, a dual role (even if possible) like this will be a huge responsibility that LeBron James might not be a fan of. He was already under minutes restriction last year and it is likely to continue in the upcoming season. Moreover, looking at his collaboration with JJ Redick for their podcast Mind the Game, it is very unlikely that the veteran will want more responsibilities and pressure on his plate.

Such a suggestion being the headline showcases how much of an influence LeBron has at the Lakers. Many a time during Darvin Ham’s stint, the media focused on their starman more often. A visible mismatch was quite visible.

Who do you think is best suited to take up the role? Let us know in the comments below.