Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James Luka Doncic Austin Reaves Jason Timpf
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Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves combined for 60 points in the Lakers’ win over the Knicks, but the real debate afterward centered on LeBron James’ role. Jason Timpf explains why the Lakers still need LeBron, but may need to adjust how they use him.
Respected Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch revealed why the Los Angeles Lakers have looked better in games without LeBron James this week. The Lakers scored a shocking 120-106 victory over the Timberwolves after both teams started the game off with horrible momentum. Media and fan questions have increased about whether the team is better off without James, due to the similar skills of their best players.
Finch said the following about why the Lakers present more danger without LeBron:
“Seems to activate Luka and Reaves, they seem to share the shots a little but more. They become exponentially more dangerous in that regard. Obviously, LeBron’s a great player, but they’ve been pretty good when two of those three have been out because of just a usage puzzle.”
Raj C.
Wolves HC Chris Finch on Bron being out for LA:
“Seems to activate Luka & Reaves…seem to share the shots. They become exponentially more dangerous…been pretty good when 2 of those 3 been out because of just a usage puzzle”
AR/Luka went on to put up 31 pts each in a win
Minnesota’s popular coach claimed that Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves increasing their usage instantly helps their overall game. Both of those players and James have similar skill sets that require them to hold the ball to make plays for their best results. Sharing the ball with one less person in the star trio has made the other two more dangerous, especially at younger ages.
Can LeBron Fit Into Current Lakers Style?
LeBron is questionable to return for tonight’s Lakers game against the Chicago Bulls and is expected to return soon even if he’s out for this game. The team must thrive with the trio of James, Doncic, and Reaves all playing high level basketball to even win a single playoff series in the upcoming postseason.
Both Reaves and Doncic are currently having spectacular offensive seasons to varying degrees. Doncic is likely going to make the All-NBA First team thanks to his incredible scoring numbers and being the best player on the team. Reaves missed out on an All-Star appearance, but he was trending there before an injury.
James must fit into the offense without taking away from these two since the winning has improved in his absence. Head coach JJ Redick could also split up the minutes more effectively to find a stronger solution to this problem, but LeBron must defer more and fit into an offense led by others.
How This Impact LeBron’s Lakers Future
The biggest question entering the offseason for the Lakers will focus on if James will be back next season. LeBron is expected to play at least one more season and not retire without giving the NBA world at least a little bit of warning time.
The Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors are two teams with rumored interest in James if he leaves Los Angeles. Rob Pelinka and the Lakers front office reportedly want LeBron to take a massive salary decrease for his new deal if he wants to stay.
This current stretch of success without James makes that plan look even more logical. The Lakers must find talents that fit better around Doncic and Reaves to improve their defense. LeBron’s older age makes it harder for him to adjust and do what he used to. Finch’s comment shows why the Lakers will risk losing James this offseason.