LeBron James’ biggest battle: A franchise he possibly can’t control
By Ronald Agers
No Luke Walton, no Rob Pelinka leads to promises that Magic Johnson couldn’t keep
That must have been some meeting that night, with Magic and LeBron talking basketball and business interests. LeBron James talking about what he needs and how the Lakers can get better while Magic agreed with everything with a laugh to get his signature.
Only one problem with this scenario.
Luke Walton was not there and Rob Pelinka was not there. Two employees in the Lakers organization that had more power than most people thought. Sure, I know what you are about to say.
Luke Walton got fired! How did he have any power?
Well, it seems that Luke Walton had an option to keep his job if he preferred according to Sam Amick of The Athletic.
There were reports that Magic Johnson wanted Luke Walton and Rob Pelinka fired to continue as President of Basketball Operations. Something that Jeanie Buss was not going to agree to.
Maybe LeBron James should have had a conversation with LaVar Ball. Look, you may not like his delivery. but can you really say he’s wrong?
"Magic, from my point of view now, listening to him talk, he's just a face. I don't think his say-so is like his say-so. ... I'm trying to figure out who's in charge [of the Lakers]. The system is crumbling down." — @Lavarbigballer pic.twitter.com/zmMxtwxCaV
— UNDISPUTED (@undisputed) April 10, 2019
Now that LeBron James’ number one ally is gone, now he has to deal with a brand new proposal.