LeBron James reportedly does not want to sit through long recruiting pitches this summer. How will this impact the Los Angeles Lakers?
With free agency around the bend, it is an exciting time to be an NBA fan. The Los Angeles Lakers have been one of the most heavily discussed teams with regard to free agency. Among all the buzz, though, no one has been talked about more than superstar LeBron James.
The word “duh” comes to mind upon saying that because James is the best player on planet Earth. As a result, there are quite a few teams that are interested in his services headed into the summer. The Lakers are certainly among that group.
It is worth noting that James has yet to pick up his $35.6 million option to remain in Cleveland next year. Although he has until Friday to do so, free agency seems to be inevitable at this juncture.
Nevertheless, what is going through LeBron’s headed regarding his player option is not known for sure. What is plain and simple, however, is how James wants to be treated by other teams in the upcoming weeks.
Per Ramona Shelburne of ESPN, the Cavaliers’ superstar feels like he grasps how the league works after 15 seasons. Thus, James does not want to be pampered with a bunch of lavish recruiting pitches from other squads.
"“James might meet or speak with a club official or owner at some point, but the elaborate presentations that have become common in NBA free agency over the years are unnecessary after 15 seasons in the league.”"
Shelburne’s report reveals where James is at in his illustrious career. He is at a point where he is not interested in wasting in time. It is fair to say that after a decade and a half in the league, he understands what he brings to the table.
Yahoo Sports’ Ben Rohrbach elaborates on this notion. In his piece, Rohrbach argues that James does not need to be flattered to influence his decision-making.
"“This is the mark of a man who understands his status as one of the game’s greatest players. You don’t need to boost the ego of a guy who gets how he will change your franchise just by being a part of it.”"
Moreover, the fact that LeBron does not want to listen to glitzy pitches hints at a robust businesslike approach on his part. The man is not getting any younger, so he may rule out teams that beat around the bush.
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Assuming James becomes a free agent, he has faith that his agents, Rich Paul and Mark Termini, will do a lot of the talking. Via Shelburne, they comprehend where the league currently stands and how James could alter it in a heartbeat.
That being said, what occurs this summer with James will be nothing like the spectacle that transpired in 2010. Teams did all they possibly could at the time to entice the small forward to jump aboard their ship. After doing some thinking, he infamously announced to the sports world that he was headed to South Beach.
In terms of the Lakers, James’ desires may work in their favor. In past free agency pitches, the team focused too much on their team history and the perks of living in Los Angeles. Therefore, this may be a blessing in disguise for the purple and gold.
The four-time MVP surely knows that the Lakers’ young core is full of promise. Additionally, he is aware of the kind of money L.A. can put in his pocket. Such information does not have to be regurgitated in immense detail.
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Regardless of whatever emerges, one thing is imminent. The summer months will be chock full of pandemonium with respect to James. Yes, he is not going to star in another “Decision” episode. In spite of that, all eyes are on the three-time world champion.