Recent decisions by the Los Angeles Lakers have pushed LeBron James into more of a secondary role. Since the arrival of Luka Doncic, who seems to be receiving greater consideration in the team’s strategic plans-James has been noticeably excluded from major roster moves. While he’s no longer a young man and doesn’t possess the physical dominance of a 20-year-old, the king is still the king. However, with all signs pointing toward him being sidelined in the Lakers’ future, retirement appears closer than ever.
In response, and with a growing passion for golf, it seems James may be preparing to pursue a new objective-one that demands more mental than physical intensity. He continues to refine his swing in the hopes of improving his game.
Several of his basketball peers believe it’s not yet time for the NBA and Lakers legend to hang up his sneakers. Among them is Stephen Curry, who recently sent him a message saying:
“…the game needs you, big fella”
Meanwhile, former NBA player Austin Rivers had something to say about LeBron’s developing golf skills:
Oh, I love it. I texted him probably a week ago now when I saw the video drop, and I was like, ‘Thank you for finally joining a real sport.’ He texted me back and was like, ‘This game is such a mind eff,'”…”It’s just hard for someone to be that great at something to get into something and not be that great. So I think he’s been struggling a little bit, but I love to see it.
As things unfold with the Lakers, Rivers seems to have asked James for advice on this new chapter as a golf enthusiast and player.
Talked about it once, probably like three or four months ago. I haven’t played with him yet, but we’ll definitely get out there soon. I just told him to go be an athlete because at Topgolf, it didn’t look like he was an athlete.
Rivers also mentioned that he would love to have LeBron as a guest on his podcast Hillbilly Bogey.
I would love that. I was talking to Trent. I’ve never asked Brian for anything, so I don’t know if this will be the first time I actually do ask him for something. I want our friendship to be what it is.
Has LeBron’s reign in Los Angeles come to an end?
The arrival of 26-year-old Luka Doncic to the Lakers has been the talk of the league. But what will truly happen remains to be seen. In response to the situation, ESPN reporters Ramona Shelburne and Brian Windhorst said Friday:
We understand the difficulty in winning now while preparing for the future.
At the same time, Rich Paul told Shams Charania:
We do want to evaluate what’s best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career.
For now, we wait to see how things play out in Los Angeles. The king still sits on his throne, but a young prince from Dallas is quickly adapting to Hollywood-and winning everyone’s hearts.
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