Paul Pierce told Kevin Garnett that if the Lakers want to maintain continuity in their team chemistry, LeBron James should accept a bench role. He pointed out that LeBron James and Luka Doncic's playing styles are incompatible, suggesting James lead bench players like Dalton Knecht to form a second unit.

The Lakers currently hold a 7-2 record, ranking second in the Western Conference, while LeBron James has yet to return from injury.