Los Angeles Lakers secured LeBron James, but are far from finished

LeBron James is displaying his willingness to be patient by signing a long-term contract with the Los Angeles Lakers.

The Los Angeles Lakers had a great offseason headlined by the signing of LeBron James. The 33-year-old is entering his sixteenth season and remains the best player in the world. Most players in their sixteenth season would be declining significantly, and possibly not even be a shell of themselves. LeBron, on the other hand, is arguably coming off his best season yet.

What does this all mean? Well, if the four-time MVP can continue to delay father time like he has, the Lakers can take a deep breath and let this upcoming season play out organically.

The 2018-2019 season for the Lakers should be about finding a team identity. The decision between a fast or slow-paced offense will be in question. Some have reported that LeBron has even lost weight to prepare for the fast-paced offense.

There is no pressure whatsoever on LeBron this year. Anyone who feels that it’s NBA Finals or bust isn’t being realistic.

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It’s LeBron and young talented players in the more difficult Western Conference. The Playoffs would be a nice start.

The Golden State Warriors are still the best team in the league, but reports are swirling about the negotiations with their All-Star shooting guard, Klay Thompson.

Klay Thompson to L.A. isn’t realistic, is it?

You never know. The fact that Thompson’s father, Mychal Thompson, was a Laker and currently a radio color commentator for the team doesn’t hurt their chances.

Many people have asked for my opinion about this topic, so here’s the best way I can put it:

I’m not convinced the Warriors are absolutely confident he will return. That being said, the odds favor Thompson staying put and keeping the “Splash Brothers” together.

However, eventually the core-four of the Warriors will all seek max contracts, and if not the max then close to it. The luxury tax would be outstanding as well. Keep in mind Andre Iguodala is making $16 million this upcoming year and over $17 million the following.

All we can do is wait and see how that situation unfolds.