Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) and Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) at Crypto.com Arena.uka Doncic and Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James leave a court after defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves 94-85 in game two of first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) and Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) at Crypto.com Arena.
LeBron James shared clear thoughts on foul drawing and scoring rhythm while speaking on the Mind the Game podcast with co-host Steve Nash.
The discussion centered on how elite scorers use rules to their advantage, especially at the free-throw line. James made it clear he sees no issue with it.
“Yeah, it is what the rules are,” LeBron said. “And he’s figured out a way to mastermind the rulebook. That’s not a problem. It’s not a crime. It’s not the player’s fault – being able to master the rulebook.
“Yeah, it’s not the player’s fault. I know our fans get a little upset with it sometimes, or even some of the, you know, I even get upset sometimes in the moment. But also, I’ve got to understand what the rules are.”
Nash was pointing to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and how he “breaks the math” of the game. Gilgeous-Alexander, the Oklahoma City Thunder guard, scores at all three levels and lives at the line. Nash framed it as skill, not trickery. And it’s true that drawing fouls has long been tied to efficiency, especially in playoff-style games.
James agreed and expanded the list. He mentioned Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, Jaylen Brunson, and Tyrese Maxey as guards who understand contact and timing. James explained that rhythm matters more than shot type.
“You’ve got Shai, James is very good at it,” Jame said. “You’ve got Luka who’s very good at it. AR is very good at it. You’ve got Jaylen Brunson, Tyrese Maxey. These guys are really, really good at it. They’ve figured out a way to get in a rhythm.
“For a scorer, the best way to get into a rhythm is get an easy basket at the rim or get to the free throw line. That will never change. I don’t care if teams start shooting 100 threes a game. For a scorer, you get a layup or get to the free-throw line. That’s the best way to get your rhythm going.
“So, guys, we’ve got some of the best guys in the league who understand how to do that.”
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23). — Source: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
From a league perspective, foul pressure also helps defenses get set and slows runs. It is not just scoring, it is control. That matters more late in games.
James’ stance also fits his current role with the Los Angeles Lakers. In his 22nd season, he averages 20.4 points, 7.0 assists, and controls pace more than volume. The Lakers sit first in the Pacific at 19–9, leaning on experience.
For James, mastery is simple. Learn the rules. Use them. Win possessions.