With a 9-4 record through the first 13 games of the season, the Los Angeles Lakers have survived the hit suffered from LeBron James’ absence so far.
As such, many have wondered how the team will mesh once James returns. Some have speculated he should come off the bench, and others question his fit with the roster, and think the Lakers should explore trades for the 40-year-old.
Dwyane Wade — James’ former teammate in Miami from 2011-14, and again in Cleveland during the 2017-18 season — recently spoke of the Lakers’ hot start, and what James’ arrival could bring to that.
“This style of play they are playing without LeBron excites everybody, because it’s the future,” Wade said. “[But] you are not better without him.”
Wade elaborated further on his point, saying that James’ absence from the court has allowed Luka Doncic to take on lead ball handling duties, and the results have yielded some of the best of Doncic’s career up to this point.
“It allowed for Luka to run the show, obviously he’s been brought in as the future of the Lakers, it allowed us to see Dallas Luka again, but also to see his evolution and his growth,” Wade said. “I really love what the Lakers are doing, shoutout to JJ and the coaching staff. It’s really good to see the adjustments they are willing to make in year two.”
Despite playing well without him, the Lakers are hopeful to get James back sooner rather than later as they look to contend for a championship this season.
More Lakers news:
- Wild trade idea outlines how Mavericks could send Anthony Davis back to Lakers
- Lakers reportedly willing to cut ties with star guard via trade under one condition
- Social media falls for fake LeBron James–Michael Jordan 'Mind the Game' episode