The Los Angeles Lakers seem to be done making moves with magic johnson and Rob Pelinka saving the rest for 2018 offseason. There are a lot of big names next summer, including one named LeBron James.
James is playing out the final year of his contract before he could opt out and leave Cleveland. His move next year remains a mystery. He could remain with the Cavs or opt to move to another team.
A chance to win a championship could entice him but veteran Matt Barnes believes it may be something more.
James looking for a managing role
LeBron will be 33-years-old next season and will be in the twilight of his career. As a player, he has done it all. He is a four-time MVP and a three-time NBA champion. With James achieving practically all that an NBA player can wish for, the only thing that may be left is for him to be part of managing a team.
It brings up the same path that Michael Jordan did. He bought a minority stake in the Charlotte Bobcats and eventually became the majority owner. Could this be the next on James’ agenda?
Matt Barnes of the Golden State Warriors believes this could make sense. He shares how James bought a big old house in Brentwood and claims he heard James wanting to be in management. If that were the case, he sees no better person to do that than Magic Johnson.
The Laker spirit never dies
Barnes suited up with the Lakers for from 2010 to 2012, fulfilling a dream playing for his favorite team. Though he seems fine being a Warrior, he has experienced how things are done in Los Angeles.
Aside from that, there is the word of Johnson and Pelinka investing heavily in 2018. They do have the preliminary tools right now so a veteran like James could be the icing on the cake. Will this actually happen?
Will the Cavs surrender easily?
As most know by now, the Cavs empire is slowly crumbling. Kyrie Irving is imminently going out and could be traded soon. Kevin Love could be following as well, depending on what Cavs management decides.
The sudden trade request of Irving changes the landscape moving forward, including the initial plan of trading away Love. And then there is also the case of James after this season. The hands of Cleveland are tied right now since James has a no trade clause in play. This means that unless he waives it for some reason, only he can dictate what he wants to do next.
James could get that management wish in Cleveland, though most know the support and tradition that the Lakers are known for. Cleveland is home to James so a move to Hollywood may not be a certainty. For now, James to the Lakers is a possibility. On whether this will go beyond that is anyone’s guess.