The comments LeBron James made during All-Star weekend had some within the NBA world speculating that the 4-time MVP would eventually make a move back to Cleveland.
If James leaves the Lakers, the power dynamic between his camp and the organization could be a reason why. According to Bill Oram of The Athletic, Klutch Sports’ and vice president Rob Pelinka’s relationship resembles the “early days of a war.”
“Because James and agent Rich Paul long grabbed hold of the Lakers organization and are now beginning to really squeeze.
“The situation is tense enough that one source close to the Lakers likened it to the early days of a war.
“So far, the Lakers haven’t shown a particular willingness to engage in battle with their superstar, with sources saying that Pelinka has insisted internally that there are no hard feelings between the two sides.”
Oram indicates that James’ power within the Lakers is far greater than other stars have received, including the late Kobe Bryant.
But for as important as (Kobe Bryant) was to the Lakers, sources inside the organization have long said that not even the legendary Black Mamba wielded as much power within the organization as James now has.
Bryant was never able to strong-arm the Lakers to make a move like the one James helped orchestrate for [Russell Westbrook), which has proven to be an outright disaster.”
James held significant influence within the Cavs organization previously and it’s no secret that his lack of ability to influence things in Miami was part of the reason that he left the Heat to return home in 2014. With the Lakers struggling (and having few resources to drastically improve this offseason), it’s fair to wonder whether Los Angeles would consider trading James to Cleveland this summer should the Akron-native request it.
More NBA Rumors, News & Notes
- Damian Lillard says he has watched every Pelicans game since CJ McCollum was traded to New Orleans. “Like damn, he really ain’t coming back. It’s over,” Lillard said on The Draymond Green Show. “I still kinda haven’t even really moved past it because I ain’t have to play…the end of an era.” Lillard remains sidelined following core muscle surgery and it’s unclear whether the point guard will make it back to the court this season.
- New York City reportedly has plans to phase out its vaccine mandate in the coming weeks, which would allow Kyrie Irving to play in home games for Brooklyn. The point guard remains ineligible to do so as of this writing.
- It’s not entirely clear when Ben Simmons will make his debut for the Nets nor when Kevin Durant will return to the court. GM Sean Marks indicated that while it might be a long shot, he wouldn’t bet against either player returning within the next week. For what it’s worth, coach Steve Nash indicated that Durant is “probably closer” than Simmons.
- While there certainly would be a market for Dennis Schroder if he and the Rockets were to come to a buyout arrangement, that won’t happen. The point guard is reportedly staying in Houston for the remainder of the season following the Rockets-Celtics trade at the deadline.
- The Cavaliers have promoted Mike Gansey to GM, the team announces. “Mike has been an incredible resource to me and this organization and his work behind the scenes gives me great confidence that he is ready to take on more of a leadership role,” said Koby Altman, who had recently been promoted from general manager to the president of basketball operations. “His community roots provides a unique perspective when evaluating players and the type of commitment needed to make a positive impact in Cleveland. I could not think of a better person to work alongside as we continue building this team toward sustainable success.”
- Kevin Pangos, who was waived by the Cavaliers this past week, will sign overseas with CSKA Moscow. Pangos has extensive international experience, including earning All-EuroLeague First Team honors during the 2020/21 season.
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LeBron James Hints at Return to Cleveland
