The championship drive of LeBron James was called into question this week by former Cleveland Cavaliers General Manager and current Executive Vice President of the New Orleans Pelicans, David Griffin. In a Sports Illustrated article that was published on Thursday, Griffin is quoted as saying he didn’t think LeBron was “the same animal anymore about winning.” Those comments helped spark a 48-hour media storm encompassing all things Griffin and James.
The quotes from the general manager who spent three seasons working with LeBron in Cleveland also generated a response from Camp James about how “shocked” they were to hear Griffin’s public criticisms. On Friday, former Los Angeles Lakers executive and Hall-of-Fame player, Magic Johnson, chimed in on Twitter in defense of James. Magic tweeted that he can confirm from firsthand experience that LeBron is committed to bringing a championship to Los Angeles.
“Laker Nation,” Magic tweeted. “I can tell you firsthand that LeBron James is committed to bringing a championship back to LA. He promised the people of Ohio he would bring a championship to Cleveland and he accomplished his mission.”
In response to the controversy that was initiated by Griffin’s commentary, LeBron published a tweet on Thursday issuing a cryptic warning that his throne had been played with and “ether was coming soon.” During the dog days of August in the NBA, this week’s headlines have been entertaining if nothing else. But it will also be interesting to witness just how motivated King James is as a result when the season eventually begins.
