Did LeBron James just fire shots at the Lakers’ tactical setup?
The veteran explained that his role in the side has been tweaked this year.
On his 41st birthday this week, LeBron James once again reminded the basketball world that he remains one of the most enduring figures in NBA history, despite the fact that incessant rumours about his next steps have lingered like the smell of chopped garlic on your fingertips.
James began the 2025-26 NBA season with the Los Angeles Lakers after opting to press the green button the final year of his contract worth over $50 million, securing a record 23rd season in the league.
While his choice was fuelled by a desire to see the Lakers at the top, the side have experienced a topsy-turvy campaign so far.
Final pic.twitter.com/EL9hxEjMcP
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) December 31, 2025
LeBron makes clear what has changed with the Lakers this season
Most recently, the team suffered a reality check of a 128-106 loss to the Detroit Pistons on the night James turned 41. While he contributed 17 points, four rebounds, four assists, a steal, one block and three triples, Detroit’s attack was led by Cade Cunningham, who overwhelmed Los Angeles and highlighted the Lakers’ defensive frailties.
After the defeat, LeBron chose to address the media, noting a tactical tweak that the Lakers have taken this season in terms of his role: “I haven’t really been on the ball,” he said, “I don’t know if you’ve watched our games. I’ve been playing off the ball a lot. … If the coaches ask me to [play on-ball], then I can do that. But I’ve been playing mostly off the ball this year.”
Whether or not this was a plea, an excuse, or a direct shot at the tacticians of the Lakers is for you to interpret and decide. Luka Doncic has been the clear focal point of the Lakers attack this season, with the ex-Mavs star putting up a game-high 30 points, five rebounds, 11 assists, three triples and eight turnovers in the Pistons loss.
These LeBron stats are WILD 🤯
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) December 30, 2025
👑 Played against 35% of NBA players EVER
👑 Played in 12.8% of NBA Finals Series in HISTORY
👑 Scored 40+ against EVERY NBA team
👑 More playoff wins than 21 NBA franchises
👑 Scored 10+ PTS every game for almost 19 YEARS
👑 Top 2 in MVP voting in… pic.twitter.com/jAmFK1qeJM
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Up next for the Los Angeles Lakers is a home game against the Memphis Grizzlies. The match will take place at Crypto.com Arena on Friday, January 2nd, 2026 at 10:30 PM ET.
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