Mar 23, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James (23) runs up court against the Detroit Pistons during the first quarter at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Reginek-Imagn Images
Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James opened up on his new role on the team that led him to having a scoreless first half against the Detroit Pistons on Monday.
James is adjusting to life as a “Robin” to Luka Doncic’s “Batman.” The franchise and team are built around Doncic, while James has been put on the back burner, though he is now taking a more literal backseat to the superstar.
For the first time in over 15 years, James did not score for an entire half.
Mar 23, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James (23) runs up court against the Detroit Pistons during the first quarter at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Reginek-Imagn Images
The 41-year-old star is serving as a true role player, finding the open man and thriving off the ball, rather than handling a massive load as a ball handler.
“In order for us to win ball games, it’s the role that I’m playing,” James said. “And that’s just how the game was going.”
James, rather than complain about his new reality, is accepting of the new responsibility, taking it head-on as a new challenge, especially after seeing it pay off during the team’s eight-game win streak.
“There were a couple games (during the streak) where we got down,” James added. “A couple games that we got up, teams made a run, took leads, and we were able to stay resilient and come back. So we’re a tough-minded (group).
While the Lakers lost to the Pistons, they fought hard and showed the hallmarks of a rejuvenated team hoping to make playoff noise.
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