LOS ANGELES — Forward LeBron James said he is prepared to assume a heavier playmaking load for the Los Angeles Lakers if coaches decide the team needs him on the ball more often.
Speaking after the Lakers’ 118-109 loss to the Detroit Pistons at Crypto.com Arena on Dec. 30, 2025, James noted that he has worked primarily off the ball this season while Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves initiate the offense.
“I haven’t really been on the ball as much,” James said. “I’ve been playing off the ball a lot. It’s something I can get back into, but you still have to regain the rhythm of it. If the coaches ask me to do that, I can.”
The adjustment comes as Reaves is expected to miss at least one month with an injury. In his absence, guards Marcus Smart and rookie Nick Smith Jr. have shared ball-handling duties, but head coach Darvin Ham may soon lean on the four-time MVP.
Career-Low Usage
James’ usage rate this season is the lowest of his 23-year career, and his 6.5 assists per game are his fewest since 2014. Over the seven games played since Reaves went down, he has topped six assists only once and finished Tuesday’s defeat with more turnovers than assists.
Despite the reduced on-ball workload, James emphasized that his priority remains team success. “Whatever helps the team win, bro. It don’t matter,” he said.
41 and Still Producing
Tuesday also marked James’ 41st birthday, making him the first NBA player to compete in a 23rd season. He acknowledged his longevity, saying he feels he is “winning” his battle with Father Time as he continues to average more than 25 points per game.
No timetable has been given for when the coaching staff might shift more playmaking responsibilities back to James, but the 19-time All-Star reiterated he is ready whenever called upon.
Source: Lakers Nation
