LeBron James did not offer his explanation as a defense. He offered it as insight into how he is adapting at 41, in his 23rd season in the NBA. With the Lakers’ offense now running through Luka Doncic, James is touching the ball less than ever, but still making the team click. His impact is no longer measured by volume, but by efficiency.
After the L.A.’s astounding win over the Grizzlies, it is visible that James is adapting to a new way. He finished with 26 points, 10 assists, and seven rebounds, yet the focus was not on shot totals. Every possession counted, and he made the most of each one.
LeBron James Explains How He Stays Productive Off the Ball
Playing off the ball has made Vet rethink every part of his play. With Luka Doncic in the primary spot, LeBron’s usage is less, and every cut, pass, and drive has to be deliberate. He has embraced that challenge as a path to expand his influence beyond scoring and be more complete on both ends of the floor.
“Just being a complete basketball player,” James said. “I have to be able to change the landscape of how I play according to how our team wants to play. So I’ve been playing off the ball pretty much the majority of the season. Picking spots and figuring out ways how I can still be productive to help us win.”
LeBron James is averaging career-lows in FGAs (15.4) and usage rate (26%), but has his highest free throw attempt rate since his first season with the Lakers in 2018-19.
LeBron: "Just being a complete basketball player. I have to be able to change the landscape of how I play… pic.twitter.com/u6y6hHWW5P
— Khobi Price (@khobi_price) January 5, 2026
The scores indicate the extent of the adjustment. Now, James’ usage rate is 26 percent, the lowest of his career, and he is attempting just 15.4 field goals per game. Even in his rookie season, his usage was slightly higher at 27.6 percent. Yet despite fewer opportunities, James is producing efficiently. Against Memphis, he went 8-for-10 from the free throw line, marking his highest free throw attempt rate since his first season with the Lakers in 2018–19.
Turnovers have also dropped sharply. This season, James is averaging 2.4 per game, down from 3.5 in 2023–24 and 3.7 in 2024–25. That reduction is partly due to his lower usage, but also shows he is paying closer attention to each possession.
James is still the Lakers’ late-game stabilizer, finisher, and playmaker. His defensive effort remains crucial, even if he can’t carry the crew on that end as he did in his prime.
Right now, LeBron proves power isn’t about how much you do. Through timing, smart decisions, and steady influence, his presence continues to shape games. Moments matter more than minutes when every move carries weight, still among the best, simply by staying sharp.
