Markieff Morris thinks LeBron James has been relegated to Lakers third option

According to American sports media F/W analyst Nico Martinez, Markieff Morris’s latest comments about LeBron James caused a sensation in the industry. The veteran forward said in an interview with "Morris Code" that LeBron is no longer the Lakers' second option, pointing to Reeves' breakthrough as proof that the balance of power in Los Angeles has changed. "At this point, he's not the second option. Are you going to take the ball away from him? You've said that's the future, he's playing next to him, averaging 27 next to him. Who's the second option now?" Morris said.

Morris went on to explain, "While LeBron's greatness and longevity are undeniable, the Lakers' new direction has him falling further down the rankings. "As an organization, you choose to go a certain way. He's behind Reeves right now, and I think his lack of focus has cost him a few options. It doesn't take anything away from his game, but where he is now, he's the third option on that team," Morris said.

LeBron James has never been a third option before. In fact, before Luka Doncic arrived, He was never the No. 1 option on any of his teams with the Cavaliers, Heat, and Lakers, but LeBron was always at the top of the hierarchy, sanctioning trades, defining the culture, and almost serving as the team's assistant coach. At age 40, James' role has evolved to reflect his current situation in his 23rd year. He's taking a more cautious approach to his workload this season, which means he won't lead like fans are used to seeing from him. Instead, LeBron is trying to find a balance between being productive on the court and protecting his body long-term at this stage of his career. The Lakers know they can't rely on the Kings to carry them every night. With Doncic now leading the charge, the team's entire timeline, as well as the power hierarchy, has changed, with Austin Reeves occupying the position directly below him this season. With 31.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 9.3 assists, he's elevated his game and helped the Lakers find early success, and the team is now 6-2 if LeBron doesn't play a minute. The losing record ranks third in the Western Conference.

Reeves and Doncic have been the Lakers' heroes so far, but the job is far from done, and with a lot of games left to play, Los Angeles must stay focused with two of its best players coming back to remind everyone how effective he can be in any role he plays. James may no longer be the Lakers' go-to option, but that doesn't mean he's no longer their standard. Even now that Reeves and Doncic are leading the way, everything still runs through LeBron's presence and influence making him relevant longer than anyone expected, and his return will prove why he remains one of the most impactful players in the game.