This offseason has been a bit unusual when it comes to LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers. Despite the speculation, the two sides have stayed together, and there hasn’t been any move suggesting a potential breakup. Still, James' agent, Rich Paul, has been very vocal on his client’s behalf.
“LeBron wants to compete for a championship," Paul told ESPN. "He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. We are very appreciative of the partnership that we've had for eight years with Jeanie [Buss] and Rob [Pelinka] and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career.”
Before the start of training camp, Paul shifted the pressure toward Lakers GM Rob Pelinka, making it clear that the team’s construction around James is under scrutiny.
“It’s important not to worry about the future when it comes to LeBron James,” Charania said, quoting Paul, whom he spoke to earlier in the day. “Just appreciate the present and also maximizing his present. And that, obviously, that onus, potentially falling on the Lakers, and what team they put around him.”
It was also reported by ESPN’s Dave McMenamin that Paul has already given the Lakers organization an ultimatum before training camp officially began.
“As I reported on NBA Today, the plan is for LeBron James to be present for the Lakers' first practice Tuesday but will be limited in his on-court participation, sources told ESPN. LeBron’s camp conveyed to the Lakers’ brass to be ‘overly cautious’ and take the long view in Year 23,” McMenamin posted.
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This is a noticeably different approach from James and his camp compared to previous offseasons. Still, LeBron did hint at this shift in tone during his opening presser at Lakers Media Day.
It’s unusual to see his reps taking so much control this early, but it also gives the feeling that the end could be near. James’ body has started to show signs that even he is not immune to Father Time. As he enters Year 23, Paul continues to speak loudly on LeBron’s behalf.