LeBron James is just like everyone else sometimes. The Los Angeles Lakers star is already showing love for Lil Wayne's “Tha Carter V.” Like most hip-hop fans, James is loving the newest album from the “best rapper alive.”

More specifically, James is listening to “Mona Lisa,” which has a Kendrick Lamar feature on it. Lamar and Weezy are two of the best in rap. Game recognize game.

Lil Wayne and LeBron have more in common than one would think. “Tha Carter” was released in 2004 — James' rookie season was 2003-04. Both Wayne and James have come a long way since 2004. James went on to become a player who helped define an entire generation of basketball. It's impossible to discuss the last 15 years of rap without including Lil Wayne in the conversation.

This latest album feels like a major moment in Lil Wayne's career, much like LeBron's decision to sign with the Lakers could be a defining moment in his career.

But so far, so good in Los Angeles. James and his teammates are quietly confident about the future. There are no declarations of championship or bust, but there is definitely a different vibe surrounding the Lakers this season.

James and the Lakers open up the preseason on Sunday against the Denver Nuggets. It's unclear how much James will play, but he will definitely play at some point. Until then, James can continue to bump Lil Wayne and Kendrick Lamar along with everyone else.