When Paul Pierce was still suiting up for the Boston Celtics, his rivalry with LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers was must-see TV. And while Pierce is no longer lacing up his sneakers, he’s still very much a part of the NBA ecosystem, just now it’s via his multiple podcast ventures. James, on the other hand, is still an active member of the NBA and one of the Los Angeles Lakers’ most important players. However, the 40-year-old megastar is yet to suit up this season as he recovers from sciatica. The Lakers have enjoyed a strong start to the season, winning seven of their opening ten matchups. During a recent episode of the “KG Certified” podcast, Pierce discussed James’ eventual return to the floor. “When LeBron comes back, LeBron gotta come off the bench,” Pierce said. “The way you want it to work, you’ve got to come off the bench. If I’m Bron, I wouldn’t be feeling that…I’m just saying, it’s for the chemistry of it. He can still give you the same production, and off the bench, it would work. Because his game and Luka (Doncic’s) game don’t work.” The Lakers acquired Luka Doncic at the Feb. 5 trade deadline. Over the summer, Rob Pelinka rounded out the roster with players who suit Doncic’s style of play, including former Celtics standout Marcus Smart. Story continues below advertisement James is in the final year of his current contract. He opted into his $52.6 million player option earlier this summer. He is likely aiming to contend for one more championship before calling time on his career. However, it’s hard to envision him accepting a sixth man role. Last season, James suited up for 70 regular-season games, averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists while shooting 57.4% from two-point range and 37.6% from deep. Head coach JJ Redick won’t want to move that type of star-level production to the bench, even if Pierce does have a point.