According to Harrison Faigen of SB N ation, Los Angeles Lakers head coach Luke Walton would rather rest LeBron James during practice rather than in the regular season. While James will definitely be the leader of this new team, many expect him to embrace playing fewer minutes during the regular season so he's fresh for a playoff run this year.
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James has had astounding health given his playing style and the longevity of his career. He played all 82 games for the Cleveland Cavaliers in his 15th NBA season last year. The 33-year-old star showed no signs of slowing down, averaging 27.5 points, 8.6 rebounds and 9.1 assists for his team. James now has the most promising young core he's ever played with around him. With Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma and Brandon Ingram around him, he will be able to minimize the wear and tear on his body so he can be at his best for a late season push.
James had to do it all for his team last year. Especially since Kevin Love missed an extended period of time with a broken hand. The team looked to James to be their primary ball handler, scorer and passer for and average of 36.9 minutes every night. Now he'll have the option to relinquish some of those responsibilities to his new teammates from time to time.
Over the years, James has developed a reputation for the tremendous maintenance job he does on his body during the offseason. Walton knows he doesn't have to worry about him being conditioned. What he does know, is that James is approaching a transitional period in his career. He'll make sure he takes every precaution he can before the season starts, so the best player in the world can be on the court whenever the Lakers need him this year.
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