At one point, it seemed unthinkable to even suggest that a team led by LeBron James could be better without him.
But in the 2025-26 season, the conversation has shifted dramatically, especially in the last few weeks.
With Luka Doncic establishing himself as the team's new catalyst, a new wave suggests that the Los Angeles Lakers may be better off without LeBron.
That narrative has only gained more traction since Austin Reaves and Luka have led the teams to wins in eight of the 10 contests they have been without the four-time MVP.
However, Rich Paul firmly dismisses that idea.
There is no two-way about admitting that the Lakers' offensive identity is being shaped by its young backcourt duo of Reaves and Doncic, who are averaging a combined 56.8 points per game.
This development has only encouraged James to take a backseat and focus on filling the gaps of the team. With the latter being less assertive, speculations have only grown stronger that the team looks more structured and plays a more cohesive brand of basketball without LBJ.
Paul clearly stated that there could be brief stretches wherein the Lakers may look more organized without LeBron, but he feels that every team can benefit from the presence of the 41-year-old forward. In fact, James' versatility, acumen and experience make him an irreplaceable piece even in this age.
"You hear all the nonsense about the team being better without LeBron. I never seen a team in my life that would be better without LeBron James . Still, this one is not either, " Paul said on his podcast.
"I think it's more about figuring it out. Sometimes it takes you longer than not because for a guy who has been on the ball for so long, how do you play him off the ball? You have to factor in his presence. You have to realize something. Most guys who step on the floor with LeBron James are in awe ."
While it is indeed a great site to witness Luka drop 30-32 points in every game, truth be told, the Slovenian point guard would face massive pressure in the playoffs, as opposition teams would be hellbent on limiting his touches and scoring prowess.
In such a scenario, if Reaves isn't able to carry the scoring load, the Purple and Gold will inevitably have to rely on LeBron to be their ultimate x-factor.
King James ability to control the tempo of a game and make the game easy for his teammates will be a trait that will be the difference maker in the Playoffs.
That being said, although critics frequently interpret any decline in production as a sign of regression, LeBron's current averages of 21.2 points, 6.9 assists and 5.7 rebounds per game reflect a strategic adjustment rather than diminished capability.
Safe to say, by managing his workload, he is preserving energy for the business end of the campaign and the upcoming postseason and Paul recognizes this wholeheartedly.
This story was originally published by Basketball Network on Mar 17, 2026, where it first appeared in the Latest News section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
