Lakers’ key to keeping LeBron James is not the Anthony Davis extension

The Los Angeles Lakers are at a turning point in their quest to keep their championship-caliber team together and ensure LeBron James‘ long-term future. Building a strong supporting cast could be a genuine key to keeping LeBron in LA, even though the recent Anthony Davis contract extension undoubtedly strengthens the team’s stability.

Unquestionably one of the greatest basketball players of all time, LeBron James has had a significant impact on and off the court. His leadership, adaptability, and basketball IQ are traits that can help a team succeed. So far, the Lakers have surrounded him with a roster that complements his attributes and addresses his weaknesses as he ages.

An NBA executive recently told Sean Deveney of Heavy.com that the extension that Anthony Davis just signed “paved the way” for LeBron to finish his career in Los Angeles. While that helps, there are other important keys to keeping LeBron in LA that are more prominent than the AD extension.

Lakers’ true key to keeping LeBron James until he retires:

Keep building a title-worthy roster

As LeBron is now in his late thirties, it would be unrealistic to expect him to carry the team’s weight every night. To ensure effective load management, a dependable supporting cast is needed to step up when required. This approach will help preserve LeBron’s energy for critical situations while also aiding his professional advancement and keeping him competitive for years to come.

It’s important to keep in mind that relying too heavily on one player, even someone as talented as LeBron, can have negative consequences for the team as a whole. It’s important to allow other players to step up and contribute to the team’s success, both offensively and defensively.

This not only helps to maintain team chemistry but also allows LeBron to rest and preserve his energy for critical moments. By allowing Davis and other players to take on a greater role, the team can continue to compete at a high level for years to come.

Draft Bronny James

Lastly, the final strategic plan (and arguably most important) to keep LeBron is drafting his son, Bronny James. LeBron has made it abundantly clear that he wants to play with his son in the NBA, so bringing him to LA makes the possible without LeBron having to leave.

Drafting Bronny James would be a smart move for the Lakers. It’s important to maintain a legacy and having LeBron’s son on the team would strengthen his connection with the franchise.

Additionally, LeBron’s mentorship could help Bronny develop into a successful player and potentially his successor. This would ensure a seamless transition and help preserve the Lakers’ winning culture.

While Anthony Davis’ extension secures the Lakers’ future, it’s equally important to keep LeBron James around until he retires. Long-term success is greatly aided by LeBron’s leadership, wisdom, and unmatched basketball IQ.

The younger players on the team are elevated by his mentorship, ensuring a smooth transition after his eventual retirement. In addition to his contributions on the court, the Lakers should place a high priority on keeping him around because of the enduring legacy he leaves behind for the team.