LeBron James experiences conflict deferring to Austin Reaves on Lakers
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 29, 2026, 6:19 PM
Last updated Aug 29, 2026
LeBron James reportedly faced internal conflict regarding his role on the Los Angeles Lakers last season, particularly about deferring to Austin Reaves. During a Reddit AMA, reporter Law Murray noted James was comfortable deferring to star Luka Doncic but struggled with Reaves, who emerged as the second option. James ultimately became the third option in March 2026, contributing to the Lakers' success despite significant injuries to Reaves and Doncic later in the season. Following the season, James signed with the Philadelphia 76ers, potentially returning to a similar role behind other stars.
- •James deferred to Reaves during the 2025-26 season.
- •The Lakers went 15-2 in March 2026 with James as third option.
- •Reaves and Doncic suffered injuries before the playoffs.
- •James led the Lakers past the Rockets in the postseason.
- •James signed with the Philadelphia 76ers after the season.
- 6:19 PMYahoo Sports — Report Reveals LeBron James’ ‘Internal Conflict’ Over Austin Reaves’ Growing Role
- 2:06 PMYahoo Sports — LeBron James Reportedly Had ‘Internal Conflict’ Over Deferring To Austin Reaves On Lakers
"LeBron James spent two decades as the primary offensive option everywhere he played, a habit that proved difficult to break once the Los Angeles Lakers needed him to share the ball. During his final season with the franchise, the 41-year-old reportedly fought with internal tension as Los Angeles relied heavily on Austin Reaves in the [...]
"LeBron James had no issues deferring to Luka Doncic, but it was a different story when it came to Austin Reaves.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsAug 29, 2026, 6:19 PMReport Reveals LeBron James’ ‘Internal Conflict’ Over Austin Reaves’ Growing Role
LeBron James spent two decades as the primary offensive option everywhere he played, a habit that proved difficult to break once the Los Angeles Lakers needed him to share the ball. During his final season with the franchise, the 41-year-old reportedly fought with internal tension as Los Angeles relied heavily on Austin Reaves in the [...]
- Yahoo SportsAug 29, 2026, 2:06 PMLeBron James Reportedly Had ‘Internal Conflict’ Over Deferring To Austin Reaves On Lakers
LeBron James had no issues deferring to Luka Doncic, but it was a different story when it came to Austin Reaves.
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