It has been noted that the Los Angeles Lakers have become sensitive to the notion of kowtowing to LeBron James, and it appears James, too, has become sensitive to the idea that his word will make the Lakers jump at his whim.
The Athletic’s Sam Amick and Bill Oram provided an exhaustive report on the current state of the post-Magic Johnson era Lakers, which included updates on the key figures in the front office as well as the status of LeBron. And LeBron is reportedly taking a more measured approach because of the perception that he and Klutch Sports are staging a slow takeover of the Lakers.
From The Athletic:
As he enters Year No. 2 of his four-year deal (fourth-year player option), all indications point to LeBron simply hoping that Pelinka & Co. get it right while offering his voice on matters in a measured manner along the way. LeBron, by all accounts, is sensitive to the perception that he attempts to run the show behind the scenes and, as such, has taken this tact.
James obviously has the most riding on the Lakers getting things right this summer. Entering his 17th NBA season, when he will turn 35, his career is evidently winding down and the Lakers don’t have many years to build a real contender around him.
Privately and publicly, James is projecting trust in the Lakers. Entering his second season of a four-year contract, with his oldest child about to enter high school, he doesn’t really have much of a choice either.
