LeBron James pointed to preparation and execution after the Los Angeles Lakers ended their three-game losing streak with a 125-101 win over the Sacramento Kings on Sunday night at crypto.com Arena.
“I just think coach staff gave us a game plan and we just tried to execute that,” James said. “I thought we had a great shoot around this morning preparing for sack and we execute that for 48 minutes.”
James delivered one of his most efficient performances of the season, scoring 24 points while missing only two shots from the field.
“I just fell in a really good rhythm tonight,” James said. “Had a good spring to my step, uh, to my bounce and just try to make the most of it when I got my touches.”
With Austin Reaves sidelined, James made it clear his approach is based on versatility rather than a fixed role.
“Whatever’s needed,” James said. “If it’s ball handling, if it’s a little bit more defensive rebounding, if it’s a little bit more scoring, if it’s a little bit more assistant, you know, take a little pressure off Luka if he needs it.”
James emphasized that his ability to adapt remains intact despite his workload and age. “I’ve done it all,” he said. “And I can still do it at a high level if need be.”
The Lakers responded strongly after a team meeting and practice that addressed recent struggles.
“I thought it was a good response,” James said. “I thought we executed that and uh it’s one of the better games we had this year.”
James was careful to avoid framing the Lakers’ success as dependent on just him and Luka Dončić.
“It needs to be all of us,” James said. “Obviously with AR out a lot of the ball handling responsibilities going to be on our hands, and decision making going to be on our hands.”
James highlighted improved ball distribution as a key reason for the offensive balance.
“I thought we haven’t got the ball to Rui as much lately,” he said. “Tonight was a great example of us finally getting some looks at the rim.”
He also praised Nick Smith Jr., who scored 21 points off the bench.
“We’re going to need it,” James said. “Nobody’s surprised by his ability to score the ball. He got us into our offense when he was handling the ball against some pressure tonight.”
Looking ahead, James acknowledged the upcoming challenge against Detroit.
“Detroit’s been playing some great ball,” he said. “Cade has been amazing and big fellow Jalen Duren. They play a good brand of basketball.”
James also reflected on nearing his 41st birthday, framing longevity as personal motivation.
“I remember what was LeBron 20 or 21 when I did the father of time commercial,” James said. “I’m in a battle with him, and I would like to say that I’m kicking his ass on the back nine.”
