Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James rejected speculation that the team performs better in his absence, calling the idea “absolutely wrong.”
James addressed the topic on March 20, 2026, after completing a back-to-back set against the Miami Heat in which he delivered standout performances. Speaking with reporters, the four-time NBA champion pushed back against the growing narrative questioning his on-court value to the Lakers.
The debate surfaced during stretches when James was sidelined, prompting some commentators and fans to suggest the Lakers were more effective without the league’s all-time leading scorer. James said his recent outings against Miami underscore his continued importance to the roster.
No further details were immediately available regarding the Lakers’ upcoming schedule or James’ plans to address the criticism going forward.
Source: New York Post
