LeBron James gets brutally honest about playing with his new teammates

Joseph Kallan

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LeBron James gets brutally honest about playing with his new teammates image

Kirby Lee | 2025 Nov 18

If you haven’t heard by now, LeBron James made his 2025-26 regular-season debut on Tuesday night against the Utah Jazz, cementing himself as the only player in NBA history to appear in 23 seasons.

James poured in 11 points, 12 assists and three rebounds on 57.1 percent shooting across 30 minutes. It was the first time he recorded 10-plus assists since March 27 of last season against the Chicago Bulls.

Having been sidelined for nearly 11 months, the Lakers’ roster looked noticeably different compared to last year, with the additions of Deandre Ayton, Jake LaRavia and Adou Thiero. Additionally, Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves have each reached another level in LeBron's absence.

When asked postgame how he felt playing alongside his new co-stars, James had a very pointed response.

“I can fit in with anybody. I don't even understand why that was even a question. What's wrong with these people out here?”

James was quick to shut down the growing narrative that he’s not a team player, showcasing much of his value through facilitating and creating for others.

One thing is for certain: any player who lasts more than 20 seasons is going to share the floor with an enormous range of teammates.

James has suited up with 245 different teammates, played against more than 1,700 different players and has matched up with or against nearly 36 percent of everyone who has ever stepped foot on an NBA court.

If that isn’t the definition of variety at its highest degree, fans might need to go back to the drawing board.

James’ teammates eagerly awaited his return, fully aware that a player of his caliber can only elevate the team’s success. The Lakers have now won four of their last five games and are expected to have LeBron healthy for their next matchup on Nov. 23.

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