To say that the Los Angeles Lakers fell short of expectations last season would be a massive understatement. But if LeBron James' words on the first few days of training camp are any indication, this season is already shaping up to be vastly different, and this goes beyond Russell Westbrook.

Asked about the apparent exhaustion on his face as LeBron James appeared in front of reporters, the Lakers star claimed it was actually a promising sign. The team was grinding harder than ever, with King James right in the middle of it.

Via ESPN's Dave McMenamin:

“Just the energy,” the Lakers star said when asked what had changed. “Last year after coming off the bubble it literally took everything away from you. Any little bit of energy that you had, it was completely gone when we left there. … To come back into the season with the quick start that we had, kind of the life of the party was a little bit, just like, it was just kind of stale. You know, rightfully so. Guys just didn't have an opportunity to get a mental break.

Article Continues Below
More Los Angeles Lakers News
Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (left) defends against Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (right) during the fourth quarter at Chase Center.
Nick Wright drops the mic on LeBron James vs. Stephen Curry debateScotty White ·
Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) reacts during the second half in game five of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena
Luka Doncic reveals initial thought on living in LA after Lakers tradeJosue Pavon ·
Cooper Flagg talks to the media during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Marriott Marquis Chicago.
Lakers set first Cooper Flagg, Mavericks matchup in Las VegasMalik Brown ·
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) moves the ball against the Houston Rockets during the first half at Crypto.com Arena.
Lakers Luka Doncic’s sends ‘speed’ message that will scare rest of NBANathan Yasis ·
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) smiles after his team scored against the Sacramento Kings during the fourth quarter at Golden 1 Center.
LeBron James’ former teammate provides eye-opening take on GOAT debateAlex House ·
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James warms up before the start of a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center.
Lakers’ LeBron James doesn’t hold back on clout-chasing trainersRichard Pereira ·

“You could definitely feel the energy shift a lot more in this season the first two practices compared to last.”

lebron james lakers deandre jordan russell westbrook carmelo anthony kent bazemore kendrick nunn Lakers

Beyond just the addition of Russell Westbrook, the Lakers' core which remains has finally gotten the opportunity to catch its breath. As the team embarks on what will be the first full 82-game season in the last three years, that could be the key to finding their championship groove once again.