LeBron James Sends Message to Lakers with Cryptic Tweets and Knicks Towel
The Los Angeles Lakers and their star player, LeBron James, were the subject of trade rumors recently. However, James’ agent, Rich Paul, quickly dismissed these rumors for the current season. Despite this, James made some cryptic tweets and gave vague answers when asked about his contract situation. He even used a New York Knicks towel during a post-game interview after the Lakers’ win on February 3.
According to an insider, all of these actions were deliberate and meant to send a message to the Lakers’ front office, especially with the trade deadline approaching. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst explained that James often wears towels, so he can easily deny any hidden meaning behind it. However, Windhorst believes that James purposely used the Knicks towel to pressure the Lakers.
It is worth noting that James has the option to opt out of his contract this offseason. With the Lakers struggling this season, some speculate that it may be in the best interest of both James and the team to part ways. Adding to the speculation, James wore shoes in the same colorway as his son’s team, the USC Trojans. This has led to theories that James wants to play with his son in the future.
While James has not confirmed these rumors, an ad for Beats, narrated by his wife Savannah, suggests that the dream of playing with his son is still alive. However, ESPN draft analysts projected that James’ son, Bronny James, may go undrafted in their mock draft. This could alleviate some concerns about James’ desire to play with his son.
Regardless, it is clear that James wants to make a statement.
The Lakers have been linked to numerous trade candidates as the February 8 deadline approaches. However, as the deadline gets closer, the rumors have cooled down. One player they decided not to pursue is Zach LaVine of the Chicago Bulls, who is out for the season due to foot surgery. The Lakers, along with the Atlanta Hawks, are not willing to make a potential trade for Dejounte Murray. Additionally, the Lakers have backed out of their pursuit of Bruce Brown from the Toronto Raptors.
Instead, the Lakers are now focusing on less expensive targets, particularly two-way wings. According to The Athletic’s Jovan Buha, the team sources have revealed that the Lakers are placing a greater emphasis on adding a defensive wing before the trade deadline. However, the challenge lies in the fact that every team is in need of a wing player, which has driven up the prices for potential trades.
Furthermore, there is a possibility that LeBron James’ influence could have an opposite effect in the long run. The Lakers’ front office may view the uncertainty surrounding the 39-year-old superstar as a reason to not make any long-term commitments beyond this season.
Josh Buckhalter covers the NBA and NFL for a prominent tabloid.