LeBron James dances with Kai Cenat and sparks controversy for leaving the Lakers without a captain

LeBron James is about to begin his 23rd NBA season. But instead of headlines about his game, what’s making noise is a viral video. The 40-year-old veteran, absent from Lakers practice due to a glute injury caused by nerve irritation, showed up on a livestream with content creator Kai Cenat. In the clip, LeBron is seen dancing and joking around while his team prepares to face the Suns in their first preseason game.

The backlash came quickly. According to Marca, U.S. media outlets and fans on social media questioned LeBron James’ commitment to the Lakers. One journalist even called him “the biggest liar in history,” sharing the video as proof of his inconsistency. The criticism wasn’t just about the gesture—it was about the timing: the same day he missed practice due to injury.

A delicate situation

Things get more complicated when you look at the bigger picture. LeBron James is under contract until 2026, but he hasn’t confirmed whether this will be his final season or if he plans to stay in L.A. His leadership in the locker room has been pivotal for years. Now, though, questions are surfacing about his focus and priorities. While JJ Redick works to build a new team structure with Luka Doncic as the emerging centerpiece, the captain seems to be on a different wavelength.

LeBron James is the greatest liar of all time. Once in a lifetime talent. GOAT https://t.co/fRdKgfJrPu pic.twitter.com/aDoQ4Icz37

— Per Sources (@PerSources) October 1, 2025

ESPN reported that the injury could sideline LeBron James for the entire preseason. Still, he’s expected to be ready for the official season opener against the Golden State Warriors on October 21. Even so, the image of LeBron dancing while his teammates grind through practice casts a shadow over the start of the campaign.

Tactical and narrative adjustments

The Lakers aren’t just dealing with tactical changes—they’re managing a shifting narrative. Is LeBron James truly committed to ending his career on a high note? Or are we witnessing the early signs of a farewell from a legend who’s starting to look beyond basketball?

In Los Angeles, every move LeBron James makes is under the microscope. And this time, the move was a dance—but also a controversy. The ball hasn’t bounced yet, but the noise has already begun. And in the NBA, noise always comes with consequences.