What happened: Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick described LeBron James as a defensive quarterback who directs positioning. The label drew counter that James has at times been caught out of place.

Why it matters: Los Angeles opens 2026-27 preseason camp with secondary rim protection unproven behind its starters. How James organizes drop coverage will shape early rotation choices against shooting lineups.

What to watch: Watch how the Lakers deploy drop coverage in preseason matchups.