LeBron James is the Lakers leader. He’s the player whose words are paid most attention to (particularly by media and fans), the player whose footsteps are followed by his teammates. When there’s a big moment for this team, it’s James who everyone looks to for guidance and direction; it’s James who sets the tone via his words (on and off the court) and his play.
For all his production and gaudy counting stats, it’s James’ leadership that has also catapulted him into the MVP discussion — he’s the person who has kept this team together through all variety of challenges this year, be it the firestorm that awaited his team in China during the preseason to Kobe’s tragic and untimely passing in January.