LeBron James canceled a golf outing last week, a move that signaled a major shift in his mindset. With key players sidelined by injury, James told teammates the burden was too heavy for him to take a day off. This decision highlights the pressure he faces to carry the Lakers.

On a recent road trip, LeBron canceled a planned golf outing in Dallas. The sudden change of plans caught the attention of his inner circle.

The decision was made due to a sudden shift in the Los Angeles Lakers' season. Former Lakers teammate JR Smith shared how it all went down.

“Oh, man. It’s funny, he texted the group chat ’cause it was in Dallas when he was playing, and we were supposed to play golf. He’s like, ‘Man, I can’t play golf"

"I got too much on my shoulders right now. If this were five years ago, I would definitely play.’ It’s tough, man. It’s always the next man up mentality. I’m excited to see who can possibly step up for them.”

The group chat message was sent right after the medical updates on Dončić and Reaves became public. Star guard Luka Dončić suffered a Grade 2 left hamstring strain and traveled to Spain for a specialized injection procedure.

Key playmaker Austin Reaves also went down with a Grade 2 left oblique strain during a 139-96 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.

This many injuries make it clear how hard it is to take a team deep into the playoffs, which LeBron James did at an elite level in 2018. 

Many people think that LeBron James' 2018 playoff run was one of the best "carry jobs" in NBA history. He took a Cavaliers team that was heavily outmatched to the Finals.

He played all 82 regular-season games and more than 100 games in the 2018 postseason, averaging 34.0 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 9.0 assists.

At 41 years old, LeBron is the clear primary option on a roster. His new on-court role is already becoming clear.

How The Lakers Are Handling The Sudden Changes

The first real test without their two injured guards came against the Dallas Mavericks. LeBron became the leader of the Lakers' offense once again. He bagged 30 points, 9 rebounds, and 15 assists. However, the team still fell short in a 134-128 loss. 

LeBron described hearing the news about Luka as "a hit to the heart, the chest, the mainframe."

Still, he remains confident, even telling a courtside fan during a game, "I can still do this s***". You know what I’m sayin’? I can still do this s***. They put me on the shelf, you know?"

Head coach JJ Redick noted that while LeBron is the team’s first choice again, the burden must not be completely on his shoulders.

Redick said, "It’s up to all of us, whoever’s in the lineup, to pick up our individual play and make plays together."

Do you think LeBron can carry the Lakers deep into the playoffs at 41 years old?

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Written by

Utsav Sinha