“Let me be the first to apologize to the Los Angeles Lakers because I did not see them being capable of that … If that Los Angeles Lakers team shows up in the postseason, look the hell out.” When even critics like Stephen A. Smith retract their previous claims, you know that you are doing something right. The same LA squad that once held the 8 seed due to a 12-9 win record has now risen to the 4 spot through a 35-21 record. While Luka Doncic’s offensive presence is certainly turning heads, LeBron James handling things on both ends of the floor is also not going unnoticed. When touched upon it, the 40-year-old admitted that he and his teammates are bringing the squad’s problems to a close.

James participated in a Q&A session after the Lakers’ 107-99 win against the Dallas Mavericks. During the same, a reporter highlighted JJ Redick’s previous comments about how LeBron is playing on an All-Defensive Level. When asked the reason behind this improvement, the Lakers star replied, “Obviously, its a collective thing, you know. But, take that side of the floor very seriously. I take my matchups very seriously every night. And, you know, to be able to, you know, get stops in this league, and make sure offense is that much better”.

The ‘Akron Hammer’ admitted that playing on this level is “just individual pride for me. I kind of can on all my matchups”. At the same time, he looks to the other “guys” to see the best play that can solve the team’s issues on the offensive and defensive front.

After losing key defensive players like Anthony Davis and Max Christie, doubts emerged about the Lakers’ standing vis-à-vis defense. However, as highlighted by Athlon Sports, the LA squad has reportedly posted their best defensive rating in the league (107) over the last 10 games (before the Mavs matchup). An example was seen during the recent Lakers-Nuggets game.

To reduce the scoring efficiency of Nikola Jokic and Co., the Lakers used a swarming, gang-rebounding approach by playing aggressive, coordinated defense. They switched, doubled, fronted the post, and rotated. This new mentality, with everyone doing their part, has given new life to the Lakers’ playoff chances. As for LeBron James, both his average steals and blocks have increased when compared to last month’s.

On top of that, the veteran is now averaging 9.4 rebounds. This is higher than January 7, and December 2024’s 6.8. Therefore, he is leading by example. Unfortunately, the NBA All-Time Scorer hasn’t corrected all the chinks in the armor yet. His average scoring is higher this month than compared to January, but so are his turnovers.

However, doing well on the defense despite a traditional big speaks well for the team. Therefore, LeBron added, “It will come in every game and every film session and every practice shootaround, will get an opportunity to get better and better”.

Bron’s recent remarks served as another example of how he leads by example. It is something that even Luka Doncic is seeing and now appreciating.

Luka Doncic reveals learning a lot from LeBron James in their continuing partnership: “Amazing guy to watch”

After Luka Doncic was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, he was immediately touted as the team’s future. After all, being 40 years old, it’s clear that James’ NBA tenure is coming to an end. After his initial lapses, Luka has grasped his place within the new team. The same was seen after he dropped 32 points against the Denver Nuggets, and a triple-double against his old team, the Dallas Mavericks. From what the Slovenian revealed, observing the team leader seems to have affected his prowess.

During the presser after the Mavs win, a reporter asked Luka if he has learned anything from watching LeBron. Even the Slovenian admitted that the team’s defense was better. If he was contributing from his side, it was because “I know a lot of things from LeBron, just watching him every day, you know. And, it doesn’t change my mind, you know. He’s amazing, amazing guy to watch and play with.”

If all goes well, then Luka Doncic can see his first NBA championship title come his way. LeBron can further build upon his legacy by winning his 5 ring. The defensive problem is behind the team, for now. Therefore, it remains to be seen what other obstacles the LA squad will look to solve in the coming games.