One of the reasons LeBron James committed to the Los Angeles Lakers over the long-term was to embrace a process he knew the organization would have to undergo, according to sources.

James realized the Lakers would be unable to contend for a title in his first season and believed he had multiple seasons remaining in his prime.

James has been challenged by the media several times this week to set parameters for the season.

"I don't expect anything. The unknown is what to expect," James said. "You work for what you want."