"I'm a Swiss Army knife" - LeBron James on why he never feared his return would ruin Lakers chemistry

Back when LeBron James was still sidelined by sciatica, many speculated that he might struggle upon his return to the Los Angeles Lakers' lineup. With the team seemingly having discovered its new dynamic duo in Slovenian superstar Luka Doncic and vibrant guard Austin Reaves, fans and pundits thought James might have difficulty adjusting to not having the ball in his hands all the time.

However, these detractors forgot what the King has been all about in his entire 23-year NBA career: winning. This means that he will do whatever is necessary to help the Purple and Gold get wins and gear up for a deep postseason run.

A Swiss Army knife

James said it best when he likened his game to that of a Swiss Army knife, one that can adapt and excel in any situation. Throughout his illustrious career, he has shown that he can play any position on the court. From point guard to power forward, LeBron has done it all with incredible versatility and skill.

"I'm a Swiss Army knife. That's spotting up, waiting to get the ball from Luka or AR. That's setting pick-and-rolls in transition, slipping pick-and-rolls in transition. If we want to slow the game down in the half-court and get some post-up action to create triggers, whatever the case may be," LeBron said on the "Mind The Game" podcast.

"Whatever the demographic, however the pie shapes itself offensively, whatever role they want me to implement into the team, all I care about is winning," the four-time MVP emphasized. "I've done everything in my career, including winning, and I want to continue that. So I will easily fit myself in however the team needs me."

With the Lakers getting the season off to such a fantastic start, thanks in large part to Doncic's excellent play and Reaves' emergence as a bona fide stud, there were concerns about how James' return would impact the team, especially the young aces who have grown accustomed to making plays for themselves and others.

However, LeBron's performances in his first four games of the season have put any doubts to rest. The veteran forward has seamlessly integrated himself into the team, playing a facilitator's role, averaging 8.3 assists per game.

Related: "I wanted to be like Jordan" - Joe Johnson defends Dwyane Wade's controversial GOAT pick over LeBron

LeBron has no problem being off the ball

For most of James' career, including his high school years, he has been his team's primary ball handler and decision-maker. Where he went, the ball went. However, with Luka and Austin taking on more pronounced roles on offense, LeBron has shown a willingness to let them handle the ball and make plays.

This wasn't lost on the show's co-host, Steve Nash, who praised James' flexibility and, most importantly, a willingness to take a backseat to the young stars.

"That's the beauty of your game and your longevity. You can be on the ball, off the ball, in the post — pick-and-roll, the screener, the handler, the cutter," Nash remarked. "With your IQ, you know how to play off it. Most primary ball handlers struggle off the ball."

LeBron, though, deflected praise to the team's guards, especially Luka, whose gravity sucks the defense in, thereby allowing his teammates to get open looks.

"When you've got a great point guard like Luka who draws so much attention, one of the best things I can do is slash from that 45-degree angle, or wait behind the defense if someone is tagging high on DA (Ayton) or Jaxson (Hayes)," Bron stated. "I can roam behind the defense, catch lobs, or spot up and be ready to shoot."

With a 13-4 record, the Lakers are in a good spot in the Western Conference, trailing only the defending champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder. And with King James back in action, they look to take on all comers and bring glory back to the city of L.A.

Related: "They did us a favor" - Luka Doncic praises Lakers, league for getting rid of "dangerous, slippery" NBA Cup court

This story was originally published by Basketball Network on Nov 30, 2025, where it first appeared in the Latest News section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.