For the first 15 years of his career, all Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James heard was that the East was too easy and he wouldn't be able to dominate in the Western Conference.

So when James signed with the Lakers in 2018, the four-time MVP and three-time champion was looking forward to silencing the narrative that he couldn't play at an MVP level in the rugged Western Conference.

While the Lakers did miss the playoffs in LeBron's first year with the team, it's important to note that the club was on its way to making the postseason before James hurt his groin on Christmas against the Golden State Warriors.

Article Continues Below
More Los Angeles Lakers News
Byron Scott during the Jerry Colangelo Golf Classic on September 13, 2024.
Former Laker Byron Scott reveals Kobe Bryant’s ‘most gangster s**t’ everMiguel La Torre ·
Coco Gauff of the United States poses with the trophy after winning the women’s singles final against Aryna Sabalenka on day 14 at Roland Garros Stadium.
LeBron James erupts with huge reaction to Coco Gauff’s French Open winLorenzo J Reyna ·
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Kobe Bryant, Oklahoma City Thunder, Los Angeles Lakers
How Shai Gilgeous-Alexander draws ‘influence’ from Kobe BryantTomer Azarly ·
LeBron James, Stephen (Steph) Curry, who may be heading to an ESPN NBA broadcasting booth after they retire, after Lakers-Warriors game on December 25, 2024.
ESPN has ‘hopeful’ LeBron James, Stephen Curry wishAndrew Korpan ·
Chris Paul rescinded NBA trade Lakers Hornets
Chris Paul shuts down Hornets-Lakers trade conspiracyJulian Ojeda ·
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) celebrates with Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) during the fourth quarter.
Luka Doncic’s offseason body transformation has Lakers fans hypedJedd Pagaduan ·

The Lakers weren't able to stay afloat while James was out. As a result, LeBron missed the postseason in 2018-19 for the first time since his second year in the NBA. However, The King still put up averages of 27.4 points, 8.5 rebounds and 8.3 assists.

After acquiring Anthony Davis from the New Orleans Pelicans, the Lakers knew they were going to be a championship contender this season. Los Angeles has the best record in the West and both Davis and LeBron are playing like the all-world players they are.

Before the 2019-20 season was suspended in March, LeBron was averaging 25.7 points, 7.9 boards and 10.6 assists. The future Hall of Famer was leading the NBA in assists per game for the first time during his legendary career.