James could have a difficult test right out of the gate with the Lakers matched up with the Golden State Warriors in the first round based on the current standings. Dorian Finney-Smith could draw the primary assignment guarding Stephen Curry, but James would also be keeping an eye on his longtime rival.

When LeBron James went down with his groin injury at first, many wondered if the Los Angeles Lakers could find a way to stay afloat. While the Lakers have had their share of struggles, they look to be slowly correcting course as time goes on.

A former NBA champion believes that the Oklahoma City Thunder could face a greater threat from a different Western Conference team, rather than LeBron James' Los Angeles Lakers. The Oklahoma City Thunder have undeniably been the best team in the NBA during the 2024-25 regular season.