From the outside looking in, the thought of what LeBron James brings to the Los Angeles Lakers behind the scenes during practice is a tantalizing thought.

The do-it-all forward is a true leader, always putting in the necessary work to improve himself and set the standard for his team. After years of being on the outside, Lakers President of Basketball Operations Magic Johnson now has the privilege to see the work James puts in day-in and day-out.

With Johnson being one of the most gifted and intelligent basketball players in the history of the NBA, it must truly be a treat for him to see. James inked a four year contract to play for Johnson and the L.A. Lakers back in July, marking Johnson's first big free agent coup.

An odd cast of characters followed James to L.A., leaving many scratching their head while trying to figure out the direction the Lakers are heading. With veterans such as Rajon Rondo, Lance Stephenson, Michael Beasley, and JaVale McGee joining James, the practices must really be a spectacle. James also has a ton of young, fun-loving kids who he must guide to take the next step in their professional progression as well.

While it seems James has seen just about every type of situation during his 15-year career, this may be his most difficult leadership project yet. Fortunately, we won't have to wait too much longer to see how all the work in practice translates to games that matter.

The Lakers open their season October 18th in Portland.