The Los Angeles Lakers have started the 2025-26 season with a bang, and they’re not even 100 percent healthy.
The team has secured a 7-2 record without the help of LeBron James, who has yet to play a game due to injury.
But James is coming back, and some people are actually worried about how he’ll affect the team.
Speaking on ESPN, Kenny Smith questioned how the Lakers will work with James, Austin Reaves, and Luka Doncic on the court together.
He noted that all three of them are “creators,” and their styles of play could be redundant and pose challenges for head coach JJ Redick.
Kenny Smith says Lebron will hold Luka and Austin Reaves back when he comes back 🔥 pic.twitter.com/GHGLfrGEhD
— TheTruth (@Thetruth8240) November 6, 2025
Reaves and Doncic have been incredible so far.
They have both had standout games, with and without one another, and have worked excellently as a pair.
Most of the time, it’s been these two running plays and handling the ball.
Therefore, it only makes sense to question what happens when James is brought back into the fold.
As great as he is, he could complicate the great chemistry the team has right now, especially since he will naturally handle the ball often.
This could be a case of too much of a good thing, and it might lead to dysfunction on the court.
With that being said, this is ultimately a good problem for the Lakers.
Yes, James’ return may require an adjustment period, but there is no doubt that one of the greatest NBA stars of all time will ultimately help this team.
The Lakers are already in a good position, but it could get even better when James is ready to suit up again.
NEXT: Luka Doncic Gets Honest About Playing Against Victor Wembanyama