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5d ago

Redick Defines LeBron’s Role as Lakers’ Third-Highest-Usage Connector

The move prioritizes playmaking from Luka Dončić alongside Austin Reaves.

Image
Feb 28, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) coaches his team with Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick as he waits to enter the game against the Golden State Warriors in the third period at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Head coach JJ Redick said the Lakers are at their best with LeBron James as the team’s third-highest-usage player.
  • Redick outlined a plan that shifts primary initiation to Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, casting James as a connector in structured rotations.
  • James publicly framed the change as a sacrifice for team success and said he can adapt to what the group needs.
  • The adjustment has coincided with a four-game winning streak, the No. 3 seed in the West, and just nine turnovers in the Lakers’ most recent game.
  • Since the All-Star break, James is averaging 18.7 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 6.6 assists over 10 games, including an 18-7-7 line on 13 shots against Chicago as Dončić scored 51.