LeBron James’ comeback from injury sparks immediate reaction from ex-teammate amid Lakers’ major roster change | NBA News
LeBron James has been a cornerstone for the Los Angeles Lakers for years. However, the legendary star has been out of action with an early-season injury and has not been a part of the 2025-2026 NBA season since it began in October. Despite King James’ missing presence, the Lakers have not slowed down one bit and have been thriving behind the dynamic duo of Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves since the start of the Western Conference.Despite that, James’ former teammate, Richard Jefferson, in an appearance on Road Trippin, stated that he will slide back into the lineup with ease and without disrupting the team’s newfound rhythm. At the same time, other NBA analysts believe that James might have to adjust to the new lineup once medical staff gives him the green signal to return. Jefferson had a different opinion and believed that it would be the other way round, while still praising Reaves and Doncic. He said,
“At the end of the day, Austin [Reaves], outstanding. Austin’s playing great. He’s gotta adjust to Bron. Luka is the one person that doesn’t have to adjust to Bron.”
Richard Jefferson defended his statement regarding LeBron James amidst Lakers roster change
Following a bold statement, Richard Jefferson contradicted it with a hypothetical situation. Put Austin in a matchup with Bron. If they were playing against each other in a playoff series… We would not take Austin in a matchup against Bron,” said Jefferson. He also pointed out the fact that while Austin Reaves has been performing on an All-Star level on the court, his postseason production last year left many questions unanswered.At the same time, Jefferson applauded LeBron James for his adaptability, having seamlessly succeeded alongside nine NBA Hall of Famers. The former Lakers player said, “Reaves is an outstanding, All-Star level player this year… What’d he do in the postseason last year? LeBron James is the ultimate chess piece. He’s figured it out with AD, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, Kevin Love, Kyrie… He’s figured it out with nine Hall of Famers. He can figure it out with Austin Reaves and Luka.”Lebron James is currently assigned to the G League for rehab games and is inching close to a return from injury. As his road to a comeback inches closer to the end, it will be interesting to see the shift in lineup, especially Austin Reaves’ spot, once the King is back.Also read: Dwyane Wade rewinds the clock for surprising date with his first love in Gabrielle Union’s absence
