The Los Angeles Lakers have been shaping up to be one of the main challengers of the Cleveland Cavliers for LeBron James this summer.
Unlike previous summers, though, it appears LeBron James won’t be fielding pitch meetings from teams this year.
From ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski and Ramona Shelburne:
While James hasn’t decided yet whether to pick up his player option, sources close to the situation tell ESPN that he has no intention of hearing elaborate pitch meetings from teams.
James might meet or speak with a club official or owner at some point, but the elaborate presentations that have become common in NBA free agency over the years are unnecessary after 15 seasons in the league.
At the surface, this would seem to indicate James has made his decision already as to where he’ll be playing next season.
Whether that means good things for the Lakers, though, is uncertain. By nearly all accounts, James’ decision will come down to the Cavaliers or Lakers with the latter team having a potentially growing case week-by-week.
The Lakers could fairly easily make room for two max-level free agents with the other spot most commonly thought to Paul George. While at least part of the Lakers’ free-agent pitch to Paul George may have leaked, the Lakers are also seen as one of the main contenders for George’s services, too.
While George’s decision would likely impact James’ decision should both go to Los Angeles, a meeting with the Lakers’ brass wouldn’t be required to get insight on George’s decision. In fact, it’s likely that the two free agents will meet on their own this summer to discuss their futures and whether those intersect.
2 thoughts