Is LeBron James "Stat Padding?" What Does His Role Look Like at (Almost) 41-Years Old?

After (Monday's loss to Phoenix notwithstanding) feasting on a relatively soft portion of the schedule, the Lakers now embark on a challenging run of games, starting with three on the road (Toronto, Boston, Philly) followed by a home (Cup!) game against San Antonio. 

One of the things that could push the Lakers through would be a surge of good play from LeBron James, who has looked pretty mid (especially by his standards) since returning to the lineup. Monday, he had to hustle to get to 10 points and keep his nearly career-long double digit scoring streak alive. He was accused by former NBA'er Chandler Parsons of "stat padding." Fair? Unfair? 

And what exactly is LeBron's role on the team? More than anything else, he's just not asserting himself for stretches over the course of games. Is that a function of a new pecking order, led by Luka and an ascendant Austin Reaves? Is it a matter of Father Time FINALLY winning the battle against James? Of LeBron working his way into shape after missing not only training camp, but much of his ramp up to training camp? 

Yes to all of it? 

One thing's for sure - if the Lakers want to maximize their chances of going deep into the playoffs, they need to find a way to maximize James. If they don't, things could get significantly more challenging. 

Finally, Rui Hachimura had some choice words about the distribution of touches in Monday's loss. Does he have a point? 

HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Is LeBron padding his stats? Chandler Parsons says so! 

SEGMENT 2: What's his role? 

SEGMENT 3: Rui on touches. 

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

DoorDashNext time someone goes off for 50, use promo code NBA50the next day to get 50% off on DoorDash with DashPass — plus your shot at the Bag Drop.DashPass members only. 50% off up to $10 the day after a 50-point game with promo code. Terms apply.No Purchase Necessary. Ends April 13th. Open to U.S. residents 21 or older. Visit https://DoorDashInYourBag.com for full details.DoorDash — In your bag all season long.

PrizePicksDownload the PrizePicks app today and use codeLOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.Click Here:https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA 

RobinhoodYou expect more from yourself. Expect more from your money. Get started today at robinhood.com/yourmoney. Your money. Your move. 

All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors. Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC, member SIPC. Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC and not SPIC or FDIC protected. Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto, LLC (NMLS ID 1702840), not FDIC or SIPC protected. Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies, an SEC-registered advisor.

GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ),