LeBron James Ready to Lead Lakers Into Playoffs. Can He Turn Back the Clock? (Plus, Bufkin Waived)

After Thursday's win in Golden State, LeBron James was asked by Amazon/Spectrum's Allie Clifton about what's needed from him as the Lakers head into the playoffs: 

"Everything. Nothing changes for me, it's just back to the old ways. I gotta give them my leadership both on the floor and off the floor. I gotta lead in all facets on the court, both ends. That's what the job requires, so I look forward to it and let's see what we can get done."

That basically sums it up. But in that quote is a lot of nuance. First, there are questions of whether at 41 years old, LeBron has the juice to be "the man" in the ways he once was. And certainly the Lakers have changed how he's used on a team supported by a megastar in Luka and an All-Star caliber player in Austin Reaves. So how much does the script change in the postseason? How can the Lakers lay the best foundation for James to thrive, and for the team to have a chance to create an upset? 

Meanwhile, the Lakers have released Kobe Bufkin, meaning there's an open roster spot. Likely, they convert Drew Timme or Nick Smith Jr. to a full NBA deal. Who is the better option? 

 

HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky 

 

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