As the NBA season approaches, the Los Angeles Lakers are gearing up with a mix of familiarity and new leadership, and at the heart of it all is the indefatigable LeBron James. Entering his 22nd NBA season, James is set to make history once again, this time alongside his son Bronny James, who was drafted by the Lakers in the second round.
After a busy summer that included winning Olympic gold with Team USA, James and his teammate Anthony Davis are back on the court, preparing for the upcoming season under new head coach JJ Redick. Redick, a former NBA player and James' former podcast partner, was appointed in June and is tasked with revitalizing a roster that, despite its talents, fell short in the playoffs last season.
James and Davis will see action in the Lakers' first two preseason games, facing the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Phoenix Suns in Palm Desert, California. This early preseason participation is crucial as the team adjusts to Redick's coaching style, which aims to maximize the performance of its star players. Redick has emphasized the importance of James' three-point shooting, an area where James excelled last season, shooting a career-high 41% from beyond the arc.
The dynamic between James and his son Bronny is also a significant storyline. Bronny, who turns 20 this month, is expected to get significant playing time in the preseason before likely spending part of the regular season with the South Bay Lakers in the G League. The competitive spirit between the two has already been evident in training camp, with Davis noting the natural competitiveness and banter between them.
James' durability and performance remain key factors for the Lakers' success. At 39, he is tying Vince Carter for the longest career in NBA history, yet he shows no signs of decline. His contract extension, a two-year $104 million deal signed in July, is a testament to his commitment to the franchise and his belief in the team's potential.
Under Redick's innovative strategies, the Lakers are banking on the stability of their roster, retaining the same starting lineup that includes D'Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura alongside James and Davis. The team's bench also looks promising, particularly if Jarred Vanderbilt can return from his injury woes to add defensive grit.
As the Lakers open their regular season on October 22 against Minnesota, all eyes will be on James, Davis, and the new coaching staff. With a revamped approach and a healthy roster, the Lakers are optimistic about their chances of returning to championship contention. For LeBron James, this season is not just about personal milestones but also about leading his team back to the top.