Is LeBron calling all the shots? Lakers win, but questions remain as Bron coaches from the side

While recovering from a groin injury, LeBron James stepped into a coaching-like role during the Lakers’ 120-108 win over the Denver Nuggetsโ€”raising questions about his growing influence and possible future with the team.

Though he didnโ€™t suit up on March 19, LeBron still made his presence felt. A viral video showed him animatedly giving directions from the sidelinesโ€”at times seemingly ignoring head coach JJ Redickโ€™s instructions and taking control like he was running the team himself.

The moment quickly fueled debate: was LeBron simply being a passionate leader, or stepping into a role that isnโ€™t his?

LeBron Takes the Lead from the Sidelines

This isnโ€™t the first time LeBron has blurred the lines between player and coach. His leadership has always gone beyond the box score, but with more time on the bench and growing speculation about retirement, many wonder if heโ€™s eyeing a new chapter with the Lakersโ€”possibly in a coaching or front office role.

Redick has long defended LeBron from criticism, but this situation may test their dynamic. Technically, Redick is in chargeโ€”he has the authority to set boundaries or even bench LeBron if needed. But LeBronโ€™s influence, both in the locker room and courtside, is massive. And it seems to grow louder with every game he misses.

A Win Without the King

Despite the off-court drama, the Lakers delivered one of their most dominant performances of the season, extending their home win streak to nine games.

They exploded out of the gate with a 46-point first quarterโ€”tied for the most threes in a quarter in franchise historyโ€”and never looked back.

Luka Donฤiฤ‡ was the star of the night, putting up 31 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists in just three quarters. He set the tone early, dropping 21 points in the first quarter alone, including a signature moment of trash talk.

Austin Reaves also stepped up, adding 22 points and 8 assists to help fill the void left by LeBron and Rui Hachimura (knee injury). The chemistry was sharp, and the energy was undeniableโ€”even with the teamโ€™s leader in street clothes.

Coach LeBron or Just a Competitor?

Itโ€™s understandable that a player as competitive as LeBron would want to stay involved, especially when sidelined. But his sideline behavior is raising eyebrowsโ€”and questions. Was he simply trying to help his team in the moment, or is he gradually positioning himself for a new chapter as a coach or front office figure?

For now, Redick remains in charge. But as LeBron continues to insert himself into strategic moments, the line between player and coach gets thinner. Whether this is just temporary involvement or a preview of whatโ€™s to come, only time will tell.

Whatโ€™s clear is this: LeBron may not be playing, but heโ€™s still calling playsโ€”on and off the court.

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