The Lakers have been back in training this week preparing for their pre-season matches which begin next month.
For some Lakers stars it has been their first opportunity to train alongside James.
The four-time MVP has already admitted his first year in Los Angeles is more about building a winning mentality rather than challenging for a title.
But that doesn’t mean he won’t still demand the very best from his team-mates.
And that was exemplified by a fascinating insight from general manager Rob Pelinka, who spoke at length about an exchange between James and an un-named Lakers star.
“Now we have one of the most competitive players in the world, and I’ve seen it already in our scrimmages,” he told ESPN 710 radio station.
“Our five-on-five the other day he (LeBron) was in here and there was a fast break, and he had this pass where he took off at halfcourt and did like a 360 in the air, wrapped the ball around behind his back and found a guy under the hoop.
“But the player… it was such an unbelievable pass that the player fumbled the ball out of bounds.
”So as that player was running back and LeBron was running back to play defense, he’s like ‘Man, do you like your nose?’
“And the player was like ‘Yeah, I like my nose.’
“And he (LeBron) said ‘Well get your hands ready, or I’m gonna break your nose!’
“That competition, it elevates all of us.”
The Lakers have endured a difficult few years having not made the playoffs since 2013.
But they have managed to build an exciting young roster centred around the likes of Brandon Ingram, Kyle Kuzma and Lonzo Ball while also adding experience alongside James.
After missing out on trading for Kawhi Leonard this summer, the Lakers are likely to make their next big move in free agency next year.
The likes of Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson, Leonard, Jimmy Butler and several others could all potentially be available.