LeBron James has a reason for everything he does. So why did his camp leak that he’d be interested in joining the Warriors?
An insane story involving possibly the greatest basketball player of all-time joining possibly the greatest basketball team of all time needs to be met with some skepticism.
I think there is a bit of a clickbait factor involved in this story because it may be the most clicked-on article in the history of ESPN. However, Chris Haynes probably wouldn’t put his reputation as a reporter on the line by posting a story that has no credible sources.
This story had to be sourced by someone relatively close to LeBron, and it wouldn’t have come out unless The King wanted it to. Bill Simmons has a theory on why LeBron wanted to make headlines.
This LeBron/GSW “rumor” is such an obvious plant by LeBron’s camp to (a) pressure the Cavs to trade that Nets pick/players for help, (b) unsettle GSW’s chemistry, and (c) pressure the Lakers to create cap space for him/others. I can’t believe anyone took it seriously. Come on.
— Bill Simmons (@BillSimmons) February 1, 2018
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To Simmons’ first point: I think the Cavs already know LeBron is out the door if they don’t make a big move to improve their roster. And even if they do make a move, it may not be enough for LeBron to re-sign this summer.
I don’t think a story such as this was necessary for LeBron to get that point across.
To Simmons’ second point: The Warriors have the best chemistry of any team in the NBA right now, and I don’t think this kind of rumor is going to disrupt that.
Golden State would likely need to move Klay Thompson to make this deal happen, and if there is anyone who can handle these rumors it’s Klay. Klay cares about two things in life: his dog and winning basketball games. He’s not going to let these rumors distract him.
Simmons’ third point is probably his most valid. I’m not sure the Lakers would be LeBron’s top choice this offseason, but bringing these Warriors rumors up will pressure any team he wants to join to stock their roster with elite talent.
The Warriors are the greatest bargaining chip in basketball right now, and that may be all they are to LeBron.
However, I was on the record saying there was a 0% chance Kevin Durant would sign with the Warriors in the summer of 2016, so anything can happen.
Next: Stephen Curry May Be Having His Best Season of His Career