Former Los Angeles Lakers guard and head coach Byron Scott believes LeBron James may never be considered a “true Laker,” and the assessment is likely to spark debate among fans in Los Angeles. Scott shared his thoughts on James’ legacy with the franchise during a recent podcast discussion, suggesting that the four-time NBA champion’s career path places him outside the traditional definition of Lakers icons.
According to Byron Scott’s Fast Break, Scott addressed the topic during Monday’s episode while speaking with former NBA center Olden Polynice. The two discussed James’ long career and where he ultimately fits among the franchise’s historic greats.
Scott agreed with Polynice’s suggestion that James does not fully embody what they consider a “true Laker,” pointing to the fact that many of the franchise’s legends spent their entire careers in Los Angeles. “I think that’s part of it,” Scott said. “And I think, the fact that you got so many great players that retired a Laker, I think LeBron like going off script.”
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Scott Says Lakers Greatness Has Traditionally Meant One Thing
During the discussion, Scott and Polynice explained that their definition of a “true Laker” centers on players who built their entire careers with the organization. They referenced several Hall of Fame players whose legacies are permanently tied to the purple and gold.
Among those mentioned were Jerry West, Elgin Baylor, Magic Johnson, James Worthy, and Kobe Bryant, each of whom spent their entire NBA careers with the Lakers organization. Scott and Polynice also pointed to Wilt Chamberlain and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as players who achieved legendary status in Los Angeles and finished their careers with the franchise.
That list represents some of the most iconic figures in NBA history and highlights the standard Scott believes defines Lakers royalty. James’ career path has been far different, as the four-time champion has played for multiple teams during his 23 seasons in the league. James recently broke a massive NBA record, too.
The Lakers star began his career with the Cleveland Cavaliers, later joined the Miami Heat for four seasons, and eventually returned to Cleveland before signing with Los Angeles in 2018. His time in LA has still produced a championship, but the journey through multiple franchises separates his story from many historic Lakers legends.
During the same podcast episode, Scott also shared his prediction for the final chapter of James’ career. He believes the current season may be the superstar’s last with the Lakers. “I think this is his final year with the Lakers,” Scott said. “I think he’ll go back to Cleveland and play one more year there and then get the statue and all the stuff they are going to do in Cleveland.”
Scott added that returning to his hometown franchise for one final season could strengthen the bond between James and Cavaliers fans. “For me, he got one more year left after this. That’s what I see,” Scott said. “I think the city would really really love him even more so and respect the fact that he came back home for his final season, to retire a Cleveland Cavalier. I think that would be fitting.”
James is currently playing in his NBA-record 23rd season and eighth with the Lakers. The 22-time NBA All-Star remains productive even at this stage of his career.
Published: Mar 10, 2026 01:45 pm