With the Los Angeles Lakers securing a direct spot in the playoffs and locking in the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference, conversations have started about their potential title run. A key reason behind these championship discussions is the team’s strong defensive play, with veteran LeBron James leading the way, according to head coach JJ Redick.
After the Lakers’ dominant 140-109 win over the Houston Rockets in their final home game of the regular season, Redick compared James’ defensive leadership to that of a quarterback in football.
“Quarterbacks typically lead the offense, but for us, he’s the quarterback on defense,” Redick said. “He uses his voice and his high basketball IQ to organize and anchor us.”
Redick pointed to a moment in the Rockets game when Austin Reaves got switched onto one of Houston’s big men. Rui Hachimura managed to disrupt the play with a deflection, but it was James who quickly stepped in to provide backup for Reaves.
Reaves, who has spent his entire NBA career alongside James, praised LeBron’s communication and leadership on defense this season.
“He’s our vocal leader both on and off the court. When he speaks, everyone listens,” Reaves said. “His basketball IQ is off the charts. He’s played through countless NBA possessions, defended every type of player, and faced every defensive scheme. If there’s anyone we should follow, it’s him.”
Despite turning 40 earlier this season and being the oldest active player in the league, James hasn’t shown much sign of slowing down. Aside from a brief absence in March due to a groin injury, he’s remained highly productive.
LeBron appeared in 70 games, averaging just over 34 minutes per outing. He wrapped up the regular season with averages of 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, 8.2 assists, and 1.0 steals per game, shooting 51.3% from the field, 37.6% from three-point range, and 78.2% from the free-throw line.
With the regular season behind them, James and the Lakers now turn their attention to a first-round playoff matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves, where they’ll enjoy homecourt advantage for at least this opening series.
