The Los Angeles Lakers have seen better days compared to how they are performing in the current season. As a result of their subpar performance, LeBron James’ future in the franchise is uncertain. The Lakers did have a fantastic start to the season with a 10-4 record. However, things have been rocky since then and the men in yellow lost seven out of their last 10 games, bringing their record to 13-11. This poor performance has opened the trade gates for the Lakers and it looks like LeBron James is leading the table. This leaves one wondering about James’ next move.
The possibility of James joining Stephen Curry with the Golden State Warriors is among the most discussed possibilities. Due to this being a possibility, other teams are now closely monitoring the Lakers’ next move. However, this possibility does not seem to be all that feasible.
Stephen A. Smith of ESPN expressed his displeasure with the proposed deal, saying, “I don’t wanna see it because LeBron James does not deserve it. Perk you heard me, LeBron James does deserve to be with Steph Curry.” This is, however, a very subjective take on the matter and does reflect the views of the fans.
Smith doesn’t stop there with his critique. He has been outspoken about how James shaped the Lakers’ squad, criticizing the trade for Russell Westbrook in particular. Smith claims that we don’t give enough consideration to the extent of his influence and the actions he forces people to take in an attempt to destroy the franchise. He said: “We don’t pay enough attention to the power of his influence and then the moves that he compels to make that serve to derail the franchise. As he did in Los Angeles, you don’t get to lead and go to your a** right there, Southern California with Anthony Davis and figure it out, that’s my position.”
We understand Smith’s point of view regarding James’ trade possibilities. We are somewhat on board with him on this one. James should be in charge of assisting the Lakers in their recovery rather than looking for a fresh chance elsewhere because his influence probably did lead to their current problems.
ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins voiced his opinion on the matter and probably added fuel to the fire. Perkins said: “My sources tell me that if LeBron James at any point comes out and says that he wants to be traded or he wants to entertain it, they’re going to entertain it. It ain’t no holding him back.”
While we do feel that LeBron James should try to fix things, we aren’t bashing him for the current state of the Lakers. In all honesty, the situation is not just a Lakers problem. However, since LeBron is such a big name, people are quick to put him under the microscope. Everyone wants to take a shot at the big shots!