LeBron James Makes Practice Debut For Los Angeles Lakers

LeBron James had his first practice with the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday. Luke Walton was the first to talk. Well, if you thought that the four-time MVP and three-time champion would lead the practice, you’re wrong. LeBron’s practice debut was the thing we were all looking forward to.

Remember how James set the tone on Day 1 of his second sting with the Cleveland Cavaliers? Well, that didn’t happen this time. LeBron’s practice debut was deeper than most experts thought it would be.

It was all Luke today, man. Luke and the coaching staff had a great first practice,” LeBron said.

Lonzo Ball wasn’t present at the practice as he recovers from the arthroscopic surgery on his left knee.

There was no 5-on-5 basketball being played, because Walton used the first of the Lakers’ two-a-day sessions to strengthen the defensive side of the ball.

“It was a physical practice, but we challenged them mentally, too, as far as being locked in and really kind of helping set the foundation of the team we want to be,” Walton said.

Rajon Rondo will take Ball’s place at the beginning of the season. He urged Walton to let them scrimmage. However, Walton has that planned for Wednesday.

“We still haven’t put in pick-and-roll defense and things like that, but if you take that away from the players too long, they might revolt against you. So we will let them have some fun tomorrow,” the Lakers head coach said.

“I got to bring in the approach I get from home. When you have three kids, you have to be patient. I’m not calling these guys kids; they’re young men here, and some of these men have families as well. But you learn that you have to be patient and you have to gauge everyone individually very different to get the most out of them. Every day will be a better learning tool for me to see the ways I can get the most out of each and every one of these guys,” LeBron said.

Add a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *