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MIAMI, FLORIDA - MARCH 19: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts to a free throw by teammate Luka Doncic #77 in the fourth quarter against the Miami Heat at Kaseya Center on March 19, 2026 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images)
A popular reporter tied to LeBron James made a strong statement about the legend’s belief in the Los Angeles Lakers right now and their chances of contending for a title. Brian Windhorst has covered LeBron since high school and has witnessed James more than any other reporter in the league. The perspective from Windhorst matters more about LeBron than most and his latest update will give more optimism to Lakers fans.
Windhorst said the following on ESPN First Take about James believing in his team:
“The best thing I can say about the Lakers right now – LeBron believes. And this is a nuanced thing that if you watch LeBron over the decades, there are times where you get to a point in the season where you know he doesn’t believe in his team.
You can’t see it in stats. You just know it when you see it. Well, I know it when I see it. LeBron believes in this team.”
The strong statement comes from LeBron buying into the team’s success over the past few weeks as they turned around some negative momentum. Los Angeles is currently on an 8-game winning streak to build a small lead for the third seed.
Why LeBron Believes In Lakers Now
Previous chapters of the season showed weaker effort from multiple Lakers players and more inexcusable losses that hurt the franchise. LeBron himself had more weak moments coming from his declined defense and inconsistent offense. However, Luka Doncic leading by example has completely saved the Lakers season from falling apart.
An incredible season sees Doncic averaging nearly 35 points and putting up triple doubles quite often. LeBron and Austin Reaves have followed Luka’s lead by playing at a high level and winning important games against other West contenders like the Houston Rockets and Denver Nuggets.
The past few weeks have shown the Lakers clearly playing with stronger intensity and gearing up for the playoffs. A loaded West will see every series providing challenges, but the Lakers have more fire power from their big three than most other teams. James buying in has seen his overall play improve for a chance at another All-NBA season.
Lakers Chances Of Keeping LeBron Improves
One of the biggest questions about LeBron and the Lakers revolves around his contract status moving forward. James will be a free agent this summer, and the Lakers reportedly want him to take a big pay cut to remain with the team.
If the Lakers use the cap space to sign multiple difference makers to improve their depth, LeBron may give them a chance for one more run. The Cleveland Cavaliers are the other rumored team interested in James, but they can only offer a minimum contract currently.
Los Angeles could pay LeBron a little more and bolster the roster to give him a strong chance of retiring with another NBA Championship. However, this season must play out first to see how things end. Another first round elimination could complicate things for both James and the Lakers to part ways.