Yes, it's a stark contrast from last season under Ham, when they are down, hard for them to make a comeback like they did against a very good team in Sacramento. Usually they will just crumble and will not have that energy to go and chase.
But in this season, the energy is vibrant, and I like the move to give more time for Hayes to play the center role although we have seen the he is being bullied by the stronger Sabonis. Nevertheless, it gives AD some breathing time in the bench and so in the final stretch, he has the energy, and we see that he drains a very important three to give them a good separation.
This is what you called the Bronny James effect.
Kidding aside. Lebron is more motivated to play this year since the addition of his son and his preferred new coach. I think his extra boost of motivation lead Lakers to it’s current form.
We should admit that Lebron game last season is kinda meh since he is not carrying the team anymore while AD is can’t carry them consistently due to his on and off game. I think Lebron finally stepping up his game makes the Lakers solid this year.