LeBron James Stresses Team Success Over Individual Role
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Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James says his only priority is winning, no matter how the coaching staff chooses to use him as he works back into the lineup.
The 20-time All-Star returned on Nov. 25, 2025, after missing the season’s first 14 games with sciatica. Since rejoining the rotation, he has averaged 17.7 points on 13.3 field-goal attempts—both career lows—along with 5.0 rebounds and 8.7 assists over three contests.
Speaking on the “Mind the Game” podcast with Steve Nash, James called himself a “Swiss Army knife” and said he is ready to spot up, set screens, slash or post up—whatever the Lakers need. “All I care about is winning,” he said. “I’ll fit in however the team needs me.”
James has also deferred to new backcourt star Luka Doncic, insisting the guard be introduced last during pregame lineups. Doncic has played at an MVP level while James was sidelined, and guard Austin Reaves has produced All-Star numbers.
During his rehabilitation, James focused on shooting drills that required less physical contact, hoping to remain a threat off the ball while Doncic orchestrates the offense.
Earlier this season, the four-time NBA champion noted that the Lakers’ ultimate ceiling will be determined at the defensive end—a point he reiterated on the podcast.
Source: Lakers Nation
