Following the electrifying performance of LeBron James and Stephen Curry at the Paris Olympics, NBA enthusiasts were reminded of the trade rumors that once linked James to Curry’s Warriors.
In February, prominent NBA insiders circulated reports about a potential James-to-Golden State trade, although the deal never materialized. Recent updates indicate that the trade fell through due to opposition from James’ agent, Rich Paul.
So, why did Paul veto the trade that could have sent James to the Warriors? Here’s the latest insight into why the deal collapsed earlier this year.
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Understanding LeBron James’ agent’s stance on the Lakers-Warriors trade
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, potential trade discussions between the Warriors and Lakers hit a roadblock because of Paul’s objections.
In a recent newsletter, Stein revealed that the Lakers were open to exploring trade options if James desired, but Paul stepped in and urged both teams to abandon the idea. Paul’s primary concern was shielding James from potential backlash associated with switching teams for the fourth time in his career.
As rumors swirled prior to the trade deadline, with both Los Angeles and Golden State struggling in the Western Conference standings, talks progressed to the point of involving ownership groups from both franchises. However, James ultimately decided to stay with the Lakers.
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During that period, Paul acknowledged the validity of the rumors before dismissing them.
“When you’re dealing with names of that caliber, it’s bound to attract attention, but the focus wasn’t significant,” Paul told ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith in February.
“He is committed to the Lakers,” Paul emphasized. “Jeanie [Buss] has been an outstanding ally for him and us, and it’s crucial for that commitment to be recognized and respected. Though there are fluctuations and emotions during a season, LeBron remains loyal to the Lakers.”
The points raised by Paul align with Stein’s recent reporting.
Despite the opportunity to pursue another NBA championship with Golden State, Paul emphasized that James has already secured his legacy, stating, “I don’t believe there is anything more for him to achieve, and he is not in a position where he must win every season.”
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At the All-Star Weekend, James downplayed the trade rumors, suggesting he learned about them along with everyone else. His comments did not entirely coincide with reports indicating that the final decision rested with him.
“The potential trade didn’t progress much,” James told TNT’s Inside the NBA panel. “I discovered it when the news broke, just like everyone else.
“… Sometimes, there are discussions occurring behind closed doors that you are unaware of. And unless it becomes a reality, they will inform you. However, it never reached me, so I found out when the news broke.”
“The potential trade didn’t progress much. I discovered it when the news broke, just like everyone else… Sometimes, there are discussions occurring behind closed doors that you are unaware of.”
LeBron James commenting on the Warriors trade rumors last week🗣️
(via @NBAonTNT)pic.twitter.com/Svlqe7DbaT
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Irrespective of when James became aware of the situation, he reaffirmed his commitment to the Lakers by re-signing with the team during the 2024 offseason. In return, the franchise and Paul demonstrated their dedication by selecting Bronny James with the 55th overall pick.
Regarding the failed trade, it seems the potential backlash James could have faced outweighed any potential legacy enhancement from winning another NBA title.
Now, six months later, James is preparing for his seventh season in the purple and gold.