The noise around the Los Angeles Lakers and their superstar, LeBron James, has never been quiet. Whether they be trade rumors, questions about his age, or doubts about whether he and his heir, Luka Doncic, can really coexist at the center of the Lakers’ near future. The storylines have swirled this offseason, but inside Laker Nation, the mood seems quite different.

According to those who’ve been watching closely, what’s forming isn’t chaos, but chemistry. Franchise legend James Worth, who has seen dynasties, both his own and others, didn’t mince words when asked about the Lakers’ trajectory.

During a recent appearance on ESPN LA’s Mason and Ireland Show, he pointed to last season as a proof of the Lakers’ resilience. “I was really impressed that they were able to get to third in the West, right? Last year. On half a season with Luka and LeBron not 100% getting the chemistry and the cohesiveness and their synergy, not having a big, not having a rim protector. They got all the way to the playoffs and then they met their destiny.” But their destiny, according to Worthy, isn’t a sign that they’re bound to fail. Instead, this was a foundation.

This wasn’t the only credit Worthy gave to this Lakers squad. “I give LeBron a lot of credit. Say what you want about his career and all that, but his ability to recognize, you know, what’s before him. He’s had great players, you know, Irving, he’s played with a lot of great players, so he knows how to create that chemistry.” His endorsement undercuts the narratives that his age is going to prevent him from leading the Lakers to success.

LeBron’s age has always been a lazy talking point. Yes, only a few NBA players in the league’s history have produced results at high level above age 40, and it is true that the Lakers were technically worse per 100 possessions with LeBron on the court last year. However, James has still averaged elite production (24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, 8.2 assists) and shown that he is still capable of leading the offense, drawing doubles and dishing at a level most players can’t touch.

LeBron James himself has been blunt. “Age doesn’t matter. Age is just a number. I definitely feel energetic anytime I’m out there … trying to give everything I got to my teammates,” he said during a recent interview with CGTN Sports Scene. LeBron is clear. He has a lot more left in the tank, and he intends to help his team make it all the way to the championship.

How the Lakers are Building Around Luka and LeBron

Rob Pelinka and the front office has been deliberate in their moves. Marcus Smart, even if past his peak, brings defensive intensity and locker-room savvy that reminded Worthy of Ron Harper in the early 2000s. Deandre Ayton, still just 27, is entering a stretch of his career where he is expected to reach his peak.

Worthy highlighted how much their offseason additions can mean, going into the new seasons. “You bring in Smart, Marcus Smart, who can still play defense savvy. Ayton, we talked about peaking at a certain age. It’s time for him to step up. And I think he knows that if he doesn’t, you know, he’s going to go the other way.” His words highlight what these players already know: the stakes are high, and they can secure their spots in the Lakers‘ future alongside their new centerpiece.

This centerpiece is new Laker Luka Doncic. Still just 26, he has his best years ahead of him. The Lakers know that he is their future cornerstone, but they’re not diminishing LeBron James’ presence. Instead of carrying the entire load, James is now a veteran who already has the know-how to balance egos, set the tone and stabilize a locker room chasing banners.

With their new pieces in young head coach JJ Redick’s defense focused system, the Lakers are constructing a contender. If their chemistry clicks, any doubts will look like background noise.