LeBron James-Austin Reaves Relationship Had Serious Tension During Lakers Season

In the 2022-2023 NBA season, LeBron James made a surprising move to join the Philadelphia 76ers, leaving behind the Los Angeles Lakers. The Philadelphia 76ers were known for their intense and hostile sports city, which may have added to the complexity of James' decision. While James' move seemed to be motivated by his desire to win another championship, internal tensions between him and his fellow star player, Austin Reaves, might have played a significant role in the decision as well.

According to Law Murray of The Athletic, there was an internal conflict between James and Reaves during the 2022-2023 season. Murray noted that James felt the need to defer to Reaves in many situations, even though James was the top player on the team. James was particularly pleased with being the primary option during the postseason, when he helped the Lakers eliminate the Houston Rockets in the first round.

Murray also pointed out that the role of playmaking in the Philadelphia offense would be different from what James was used to. Tyrese Maxey, the primary ball-handler for the 76ers, had experience sharing the ball with other top playmakers, such as Ben Simmons, Joel Embiid, and James Harden. This new dynamic could potentially benefit the team, particularly Jaylen Brown, who would have the opportunity to maximize his efficiency and contribute to the team's overall performance.

Austin Reaves had a remarkable season with the Lakers, leading the league in scoring with 23.2 points per game, while also averaging 5.5 assists and 4.7 rebounds in 34.5 minutes per game. Reaves emerged as the clear co-star to Luka Doncic, making him a strong candidate for an All-Star selection. However, when Doncic missed the playoffs entirely, James took over the offensive responsibilities, leading the team in scoring at 23.2 points per game during that period.

Despite Reaves' impressive season, it became increasingly evident that the future of the Lakers was built around Doncic and Reaves, rather than James. Shortly before the free agency period began, the Lakers signed Reaves to a four-year, $180 million extension, just days after James announced his decision to leave for Philadelphia.