The Los Angeles Lakers did not get off to the start they wanted for the 2025-26 NBA season. At home against Western Conference rivals the Golden State Warriors, it was a golden opportunity for JJ Redick‘s team to make a statement. But without LeBron James, the team fell flat.
Luka Doncic did everything in his power to keep the game close. His 43 points were a reminder of the superstar he is, but he didn’t get much help outside of Austin Reaves. As Jimmy Butler and Stephen Curry got the job done for the Warriors, a concerning behavior emerged on the Lakers sideline, and it has all to do with James.
LeBron James’ body language during Lakers-Warriors game called into question
Daman Rangoola, an NBA writer who has covered the Lakers for a while, couldn’t help but notice that James was “disconnected” from the team for the duration of the game. Rangoola was in attendance for the game and saw it firsthand.
James is never overly animated while on the bench, but he usually does try to bring some energy for his teammates if he isn’t playing. It sounds like this time around it was different. James and the Lakers front office had a tumultuous offseason and aren’t on the best terms, so this could be a byproduct of that.
It could also be nothing. James might just be trying to save his energy while he rehabs a sciatica injury. He also didn’t have a ton to cheer for as the Lakers were down for much of the game. The concern will come if a trend emerges.
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